Fusion proteins and methods thereof

ABSTRACT

The invention discloses oncogenic fusion proteins. The invention provides methods for treating gene-fusion based cancers.

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/508,021, filed Jul. 10, 2019, which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/604,530, filed Jan. 23, 2015, which is a continuation-in-part of International Application No. PCT/US2013/051888, filed on Jul. 24, 2013, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/675,006, filed on Jul. 24, 2012, the content of each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/604,530, filed Jan. 23, 2015 also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/096,311, filed on Dec. 23, 2014, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

All patents, patent applications and publications cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. The disclosures of these publications in their entireties are hereby incorporated by reference into this application.

GOVERNMENT SUPPORT

This invention was made with government support under grant numbers CA101644, CA131126, CA178546, and NS061776 awarded by the National Institutes of Health. The government has certain rights in the invention.

This patent disclosure contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure as it appears in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise reserves any and all copyright rights.

The instant application contains a Sequence Listing which has been submitted electronically in ASCII format and is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Said ASCII copy, created on Apr. 24, 2020, is named 0019240_00984US7_SL.txt and is 470,246 bytes in size.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common form of brain cancer and among the most incurable and lethal of all human cancers. The current standard of care includes surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. However, the prognosis of GBM remains uniformly poor. There are few available targeted therapies and none that specifically target GBM.

The target population of GBM patients who may carry FGFR-TACC gene fusions and would benefit from targeted inhibition of FGFR kinase activity is estimated to correspond to 6,000 patients per year world-wide.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The invention is based, at least in part, on the discovery of a highly expressed class of gene fusions in GBM, which join the tyrosine kinase domain of FGFR genes to the TACC domain of TACC1 or TACC3. The invention is based, at least in part, on the finding that FGFR-TACC fusions identify a subset of GBM patients who will benefit from targeted inhibition of the tyrosine kinase activity of FGFR. Identification of fusions of FGFR and TACC genes in glioblastoma patients and other subjects afflicted with a gene-fusion associated cancer (such as an epithelial cancer) are useful therapeutic targets.

The invention is also based, at least in part, on the discovery of gene fusions joining the tyrosine kinase domain of FGFR genes to the TACC domain of TACC1 or TACC3 in grade II and III glioma, The invention is based, at least in part, on the finding that FGFR-TACC fusions identify a subset of grade II and III glioma patients who will benefit from targeted inhibition of the tyrosine kinase activity of FGFR. Identification of fusions of FGFR and TACC genes in glioma patients are useful therapeutic targets.

An aspect of the invention provides for a purified fusion protein comprising a tyrosine kinase domain of an FGFR protein fused to a polypeptide that constitutively activates the tyrosine kinase domain of the FGFR protein. In one embodiment, the FGFR protein is FGFR1, FGFR2, FGFR3, or FGR4. In another embodiment, the purified fusion protein is essentially free of other human proteins.

An aspect of the invention provides for a purified fusion protein comprising a transforming acidic coiled-coil (TACC) domain fused to a polypeptide with a tyrosine kinase domain, wherein the TACC domain constitutively activates the tyrosine kinase domain. In one embodiment, the TACC protein is TACC1, TACC2, or TACC3. In another embodiment, the purified fusion protein is essentially free of other human proteins.

An aspect of the invention provides for a purified fusion protein comprising the tyrosine kinase domain of an FGFR protein fused 5′ to the TACC domain of a transforming acidic coiled-coil-containing (TACC) protein. In one embodiment, the FGFR protein is FGFR1, FGFR2, FGFR3, or FGR4. In another embodiment, the TACC protein is TACC1, TACC2, or TACC3. In another embodiment, the purified fusion protein is essentially free of other human proteins.

An aspect of the invention provides for a purified fusion protein encoded by an FGFR1-TACC1 nucleic acid, wherein FGFR1-TACC1 comprises a combination of exons 1-17 of FGFR1 located on human chromosome 8p11 spliced 5′ to a combination of exons 7-13 of TACC1 located on human chromosome 8p11, wherein a genomic breakpoint occurs in any one of exons 1-17 of FGFR1 and any one of exons 7-13 of TACC1. In another embodiment, the purified fusion protein is essentially free of other human proteins.

An aspect of the invention provides for a purified fusion protein encoded by an FGFR2-TACC2 nucleic acid, wherein FGFR2-TACC2 comprises a combination of any exons 1-18 of FGFR2 located on human chromosome 10q26 spliced 5′ to a combination of any exons 1-23 of TACC2 located on human chromosome 10q26. In another embodiment, the purified fusion protein is essentially free of other human proteins.

An aspect of the invention provides for a purified fusion protein encoded by an FGFR3-TACC3 nucleic acid, wherein FGFR3-TACC3 comprises a combination of exons 1-16 of FGFR3 located on human chromosome 4p16 spliced 5′ to a combination of exons 8-16 of TACC3 located on human chromosome 4p16, wherein a genomic breakpoint occurs in any one of exons 1-16 of FGFR3 and any one of exons 8-16 of TACC3. In another embodiment, the purified fusion protein is essentially free of other human proteins.

An aspect of the invention provides for a purified fusion protein encoded by an FGFR3-TACC3 nucleic acid, wherein FGFR3-TACC3 comprises a combination of exons 1-18 of FGFR3 located on human chromosome 4p16 spliced 5′ to a combination of exons 4-16 of TACC3 located on human chromosome 4p16, wherein a genomic breakpoint occurs in any one of exons 1-18 of FGFR3 and any one of exons 4-16 of TACC3. In another embodiment, the purified fusion protein is essentially free of other human proteins.

An aspect of the invention provides for a purified fusion protein encoded by an FGFR3-TACC3 nucleic acid, wherein FGFR3-TACC3 comprises a combination of exons 1-16 of FGFR3 located on human chromosome 4p16 spliced 5′ to a combination of exons 8-16 of TACC3 located on human chromosome 4p16, wherein a genomic breakpoint occurs in any one of introns 1-16 of FGFR3 and any one of exons 8-16 of TACC3. In another embodiment, the purified fusion protein is essentially free of other human proteins.

An aspect of the invention provides for a purified fusion protein encoded by an FGFR3-TACC3 nucleic acid, wherein FGFR3-TACC3 comprises a combination of exons 1-18 of FGFR3 located on human chromosome 4p16 spliced 5′ to a combination of exons 4-16 of TACC3 located on human chromosome 4p16, wherein a genomic breakpoint occurs in any one of introns 1-18 of FGFR3 and any one of exons 4-16 of TACC3. In another embodiment, the purified fusion protein is essentially free of other human proteins.

An aspect of the invention provides for a purified fusion protein encoded by an FGFR3-TACC3 nucleic acid, wherein FGFR3-TACC3 comprises a combination of exons 1-16 of FGFR3 located on human chromosome 4p16 spliced 5′ to a combination of exons 8-16 of TACC3 located on human chromosome 4p16, wherein a genomic breakpoint occurs in any one of exons 1-16 of FGFR3 and any one of introns 7-16 of TACC3. In another embodiment, the purified fusion protein is essentially free of other human proteins.

An aspect of the invention provides for a purified fusion protein encoded by an FGFR3-TACC3 nucleic acid, wherein FGFR3-TACC3 comprises a combination of exons 1-18 of FGFR3 located on human chromosome 4p16 spliced 5′ to a combination of exons 4-16 of TACC3 located on human chromosome 4p16, wherein a genomic breakpoint occurs in any one of exons 1-18 of FGFR3 and any one of introns 3-16 of TACC3. In another embodiment, the purified fusion protein is essentially free of other human proteins.

An aspect of the invention provides for a purified fusion protein encoded by an FGFR3-TACC3 nucleic acid, wherein FGFR3-TACC3 comprises a combination of exons 1-16 of FGFR3 located on human chromosome 4p16 spliced 5′ to a combination of exons 8-16 of TACC3 located on human chromosome 4p16, wherein a genomic breakpoint occurs in any one of introns 1-16 of FGFR3 and any one of introns 7-16 of TACC3. In another embodiment, the purified fusion protein is essentially free of other human proteins.

An aspect of the invention provides for a purified fusion protein encoded by an FGFR3-TACC3 nucleic acid, wherein FGFR3-TACC3 comprises a combination of exons 1-18 of FGFR3 located on human chromosome 4p16 spliced 5′ to a combination of exons 4-16 of TACC3 located on human chromosome 4p16, wherein a genomic breakpoint occurs in any one of introns 1-18 of FGFR3 and any one of introns 3-16 of TACC3. In another embodiment, the purified fusion protein is essentially free of other human proteins.

An aspect of the invention provides for a synthetic nucleic acid encoding the fusion proteins described above.

An aspect of the invention provides for a purified FGFR3-TACC3 fusion protein comprising SEQ ID NO: 79, 158, 159, 160, 161, 539, 540, 541, 542, 543, 544, 545, 546, 547. In another embodiment, the purified fusion protein is essentially free of other human proteins.

An aspect of the invention provides for a purified FGFR3-TACC3 fusion protein having a genomic breakpoint comprising at least 3 consecutive amino acids from amino acids 730-758 of SEQ ID NO: 90 and comprising at least 3 consecutive amino acids from amino acids 549-838 of SEQ ID NO: 92. In another embodiment, the purified fusion protein is essentially free of other human proteins.

An aspect of the invention provides for a purified FGFR3-TACC3 fusion protein having a genomic breakpoint comprising at least 3 consecutive amino acids from amino acids 730-781 of SEQ ID NO: 90 and comprising at least 3 consecutive amino acids from amino acids 432-838 of SEQ ID NO: 92. In another embodiment, the purified fusion protein is essentially free of other human proteins.

An aspect of the invention provides for a purified FGFR3-TACC3 fusion protein having a genomic breakpoint comprising SEQ ID NO: 78. In another embodiment, the purified fusion protein is essentially free of other human proteins.

An aspect of the invention provides for a purified FGFR3-TACC3 fusion protein having a genomic breakpoint comprising any one of SEQ ID NOS: 85, 86, 87, 89, 516 or 518. In another embodiment, the purified fusion protein is essentially free of other human proteins.

An aspect of the invention provides for a purified FGFR1-TACC1 fusion protein comprising SEQ ID NO: 150. In another embodiment, the purified fusion protein is essentially free of other human proteins.

An aspect of the invention provides for a purified FGFR1-TACC1 fusion protein having a genomic breakpoint comprising at least 3 consecutive amino acids from amino acids 746-762 of SEQ ID NO: 146 and comprising at least 3 consecutive amino acids from amino acids 572-590 of SEQ ID NO: 148. In another embodiment, the purified fusion protein is essentially free of other human proteins.

An aspect of the invention provides for a purified FGFR1-TACC1 fusion protein having a genomic breakpoint comprising at least 3 consecutive amino acids from amino acids 746-762 of SEQ ID NO: 146 and comprising at least 3 consecutive amino acids from amino acids 571-590 of SEQ ID NO: 148. In another embodiment, the purified fusion protein is essentially free of other human proteins.

An aspect of the invention provides for a purified FGFR1-TACC1 fusion protein having a genomic breakpoint comprising SEQ ID NO: 88. In another embodiment, the purified fusion protein is essentially free of other human proteins.

An aspect of the invention provides for a purified DNA encoding an FGFR3-TACC3 fusion protein comprising SEQ ID NO: 94, 530, 531, 532, 533, 534, 535, 536, 537, or 538. In another embodiment, the purified fusion protein is essentially free of other human proteins. An aspect of the invention provides for a purified cDNA encoding an FGFR3-TACC3 fusion protein comprising SEQ ID NO: 94, 530, 531, 532, 533, 534, 535, 536, 537, or 538.

An aspect of the invention provides for a synthetic nucleic acid encoding an FGFR3-TACC3 fusion protein having a genomic breakpoint comprising at least 9 consecutive in-frame nucleotides from nucleotides 2443-2530 of SEQ ID NO: 91 and comprising at least 9 consecutive in-frame nucleotides from nucleotides 1800-2847 of SEQ ID NO: 93.

An aspect of the invention provides for a synthetic nucleic acid encoding an FGFR3-TACC3 fusion protein having a genomic breakpoint comprising any one of SEQ ID NOS: 1-77, or 519-527.

An aspect of the invention provides for a synthetic nucleic acid encoding an FGFR1-TACC1 fusion protein comprising SEQ ID NO: 151.

An aspect of the invention provides for a synthetic nucleic acid encoding an FGFR1-TACC1 fusion protein having a genomic breakpoint comprising at least 9 consecutive in-frame nucleotides from nucleotides 3178-3228 of SEQ ID NO: 147 and comprising at least 9 consecutive in-frame nucleotides from nucleotides 2092-2794 of SEQ ID NO: 149.

An aspect of the invention provides for a synthetic nucleic acid encoding an FGFR1-TACC1 fusion protein having a genomic breakpoint comprising SEQ ID NO: 83.

An aspect of the invention provides for an antibody or antigen-binding fragment thereof, that specifically binds to a purified fusion protein comprising a tyrosine kinase domain of an FGFR protein fused to a polypeptide that constitutively activates the tyrosine kinase domain of the FGFR protein. In one embodiment, the FGFR protein is FGFR1, FGFR2, FGFR3, or FGFR4. In another embodiment, the fusion protein is an FGFR-TACC fusion protein. In a further embodiment, the FGFR-TACC fusion protein is FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, or FGFR3-TACC3. In some embodiments, the FGFR1-TACC1 fusion protein comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 150. In other embodiments, the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion protein comprises the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NO: 79, 158, 159, 160, 161, 539, 540, 541, 542, 543, 544, 545, 546, or 547.

An aspect of the invention provides for a composition for decreasing in a subject the expression level or activity of a fusion protein comprising the tyrosine kinase domain of an FGFR protein fused to a polypeptide that constitutively activates the tyrosine kinase domain of the FGFR protein, the composition in an admixture of a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier comprising an inhibitor of the fusion protein. In one embodiment, the fusion protein is an FGFR-TACC fusion protein. In another embodiment, the inhibitor comprises an antibody that specifically binds to a FGFR-TACC fusion protein or a fragment thereof; a small molecule that specifically binds to a FGFR protein; a small molecule that specifically binds to a TACC protein; an antisense RNA or antisense DNA that decreases expression of a FGFR-TACC fusion polypeptide; a siRNA that specifically targets a FGFR-TACC fusion gene; or a combination of the listed inhibitors. In a further embodiment, the FGFR protein is FGFR1, FGFR2, FGFR3, or FGFR4. In some embodiments, the FGFR-TACC fusion protein is FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, or FGFR3-TACC3. In other embodiments, the small molecule that specifically binds to a FGFR protein comprises AZD4547, NVP-BGJ398, PD173074, NF449, TK1258, BIBF-1120, BMS-582664, AZD-2171, TSU68, AB1010, AP24534, E-7080, LY2874455, or a combination of the listed small molecules. In other embodiments, the small molecule that specifically binds to a FGFR protein comprises an oral pan-FGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor. In other embodiments, the small molecule that specifically binds to a FGFR protein comprises JNJ-42756493.

An aspect of the invention provides for a method for decreasing in a subject in need thereof the expression level or activity of a fusion protein comprising the tyrosine kinase domain of an FGFR protein fused to a polypeptide that constitutively activates the tyrosine kinase domain of the FGFR protein. In one embodiment, the method comprises administering to the subject a therapeutic amount of a composition for decreasing the expression level or activity in a subject of a fusion protein comprising the tyrosine kinase domain of an FGFR protein fused to a polypeptide that constitutively activates the tyrosine kinase domain of the FGFR protein. In one embodiment, the method comprises obtaining a sample from the subject to determine the level of expression of an FGFR fusion molecule in the subject. In some embodiments, the sample is incubated with an agent that binds to an FGFR fusion molecule, such as an antibody, a probe, a nucleic acid primer, and the like. In one embodiment, the detection or determining comprises nucleic acid sequencing, selective hybridization, selective amplification, gene expression analysis, or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, the detection or determination comprises protein expression analysis, for example by western blot analysis, ELISA, immunostaining, or other antibody detection methods. In a further embodiment, the method comprises determining whether the fusion protein expression level or activity is decreased compared to fusion protein expression level or activity prior to administration of the composition, thereby decreasing the expression level or activity of the fusion protein. In one embodiment, the fusion protein is an FGFR-TACC fusion protein. In a further embodiment, the FGFR protein is FGFR1, FGFR2, FGFR3, or FGFR4. In some embodiments, the FGFR-TACC fusion protein is FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, or FGFR3-TACC3. In one embodiment, the composition for decreasing the expression level or activity of a fusion protein comprises an antibody that specifically binds to a FGFR-TACC fusion protein or a fragment thereof; a small molecule that specifically binds to a FGFR protein; a small molecule that specifically binds to a TACC protein; an antisense RNA or antisense DNA that decreases expression of a FGFR-TACC fusion polypeptide; a siRNA that specifically targets a FGFR-TACC fusion gene; or a combination of the listed inhibitors. In a further embodiment, the FGFR protein is FGFR1, FGFR2, FGFR3, or FGFR4. In some embodiments, the FGFR-TACC fusion protein is FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, or FGFR3-TACC3. In other embodiments, the small molecule that specifically binds to a FGFR protein comprises AZD4547, NVP-BGJ398, PD173074, NF449, TK1258, BIBF-1120, BMS-582664, AZD-2171, TSU68, AB1010, AP24534, E-7080, LY2874455, or a combination of the small molecules listed. In other embodiments, the small molecule that specifically binds to a FGFR protein comprises an oral pan-FGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor. In other embodiments, the small molecule that specifically binds to a FGFR protein comprises JNJ-42756493.

An aspect of the invention provides for a method for treating a gene-fusion associated cancer in a subject in need thereof, the method comprising administering to the subject an effective amount of a FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor. In one embodiment, the gene-fusion associated cancer comprises an epithelial cancer. In one embodiment, the gene-fusion associated cancer comprises glioblastoma multiforme, breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, or colorectal carcinoma. In one embodiment, the gene-fusion associated cancer comprises bladder carcinoma, squamous lung carcinoma and head and neck carcinoma. In one embodiment, the gene-fusion associated cancer comprises glioma. In one embodiment, the gene-fusion associated cancer comprises grade II or III glioma. In one embodiment, the gene-fusion associated cancer comprises IDH wild-type grade II or III glioma. In one embodiment, the method comprises obtaining a sample from the subject to determine the level of expression of an FGFR fusion molecule in the subject. In some embodiments the sample from the subject is a tissue sample. In some embodiments, the sample is a paraffin embedded tissue section. In some embodiments, the tissue sample from the subject is a tumor sample. In some embodiments, the sample is incubated with an agent that binds to an FGFR fusion molecule, such as an antibody, a probe, a nucleic acid primer, and the like. In one embodiment, the detection or determining comprises nucleic acid sequencing, selective hybridization, selective amplification, gene expression analysis, or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, the detection or determination comprises protein expression analysis, for example by western blot analysis, ELISA, immunostaining, or other antibody detection methods. In another embodiment, the FGFR fusion protein comprises an FGFR protein fused to a polypeptide that constitutively activates the tyrosine kinase domain of the FGFR protein. In one embodiment, the fusion protein is an FGFR-TACC fusion protein. In another embodiment, the inhibitor comprises an antibody that specifically binds to a FGFR-TACC fusion protein or a fragment thereof a small molecule that specifically binds to a FGFR protein; a small molecule that specifically binds to a TACC protein; an antisense RNA or antisense DNA that decreases expression of a FGFR-TACC fusion polypeptide; a siRNA that specifically targets a FGFR-TACC fusion gene; or a combination of the listed inhibitors. In a further embodiment, the FGFR protein is FGFR1, FGFR2, FGFR3, or FGFR4. In some embodiments, the FGFR-TACC fusion protein is FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, or FGFR3-TACC3. In other embodiments, the small molecule that specifically binds to a FGFR protein comprises AZD4547, NVP-BGJ398, PD173074, NF449, TK1258, BIBF-1120, BMS-582664, AZD-2171, TSU68, AB1010, AP24534, E-7080, LY2874455, or a combination of the small molecules listed. In other embodiments, the small molecule that specifically binds to a FGFR protein comprises an oral pan-FGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor. In other embodiments, the small molecule that specifically binds to a FGFR protein comprises JNJ-42756493.

An aspect of the invention provides for a method of decreasing growth of a solid tumor in a subject in need thereof, the method comprising administering to the subject an effective amount of a FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor, wherein the inhibitor decreases the size of the solid tumor. In one embodiment, the solid tumor comprises glioblastoma multiforme, breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, or colorectal carcinoma. In one embodiment, the solid tumor comprises bladder carcinoma, squamous lung carcinoma and head and neck carcinoma. In one embodiment, the solid tumor comprises glioma. In one embodiment, the solid tumor comprises grade II or III glioma. In one embodiment, the solid tumor comprises IDH wild-type grade II or III glioma. In one embodiment, the method comprises obtaining a sample from the subject to determine the level of expression of an FGFR fusion molecule in the subject. In some embodiments the sample from the subject is a tissue sample. In some embodiments, the sample is a paraffin embedded tissue section. In some embodiments, the tissue sample from the subject is a tumor sample. In some embodiments, the sample is incubated with an agent that binds to an FGFR fusion molecule, such as an antibody, a probe, a nucleic acid primer, and the like. In one embodiment, the detection or determining comprises nucleic acid sequencing, selective hybridization, selective amplification, gene expression analysis, or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, the detection or determination comprises protein expression analysis, for example by western blot analysis, ELISA, immunostaining, or other antibody detection methods. In another embodiment, the FGFR fusion protein comprises an FGFR protein fused to a polypeptide that constitutively activates the tyrosine kinase domain of the FGFR protein. In one embodiment, the fusion protein is an FGFR-TACC fusion protein. In another embodiment, the inhibitor comprises an antibody that specifically binds to a FGFR-TACC fusion protein or a fragment thereof; a small molecule that specifically binds to a FGFR protein; a small molecule that specifically binds to a TACC protein; an antisense RNA or antisense DNA that decreases expression of a FGFR-TACC fusion polypeptide; a siRNA that specifically targets a FGFR-TACC fusion gene; or a combination of the listed inhibitors. In a further embodiment, the FGFR protein is FGFR1, FGFR2, FGFR3, or FGFR4. In some embodiments, the FGFR-TACC fusion protein is FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, or FGFR3-TACC3. In other embodiments, the small molecule that specifically binds to a FGFR protein comprises AZD4547, NVP-BGJ398, PD173074, NF449, TK1258, BIBF-1120, BMS-582664, AZD-2171, TSU68, AB1010, AP24534, E-7080, LY2874455, or a combination of the small molecules listed. In other embodiments, the small molecule that specifically binds to a FGFR protein comprises an oral pan-FGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor. In other embodiments, the small molecule that specifically binds to a FGFR protein comprises JNJ-42756493.

An aspect of the invention provides for a diagnostic kit for determining whether a sample from a subject exhibits a presence of a FGFR fusion, the kit comprising at least one oligonucleotide that specifically hybridizes to a FGFR fusion, or a portion thereof. In one embodiment, the oligonucleotides comprise a set of nucleic acid primers or in situ hybridization probes. In another embodiment, the oligonucleotide comprises SEQ ID NO: 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167, 168, 169, 495, 496, 497, 498, 499, 500, 501, 502, 503, 504, 505, 506, 507, 508, 509, 510 or a combination of the listed oligonucleotides. In one embodiment, the primers prime a polymerase reaction only when a FGFR fusion is present. In another embodiment, the determining comprises gene sequencing, selective hybridization, selective amplification, gene expression analysis, or a combination thereof. In a further embodiment, the FGFR-fusion is an FGFR-TACC fusion. In some embodiments, the FGFR is FGFR1, FGFR2, FGFR3, or FGFR4. In other embodiments, the FGFR-TACC fusion is FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, or FGFR3-TACC3.

An aspect of the invention provides for a diagnostic kit for determining whether a sample from a subject exhibits a presence of a FGFR fusion protein, the kit comprising an antibody that specifically binds to a FGFR fusion protein comprising SEQ ID NO: 79, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 150, 158, 159, 160, 161, 516, 518, 539, 540, 541, 542, 543, 544, 545, 546, or 547 wherein the antibody will recognize the protein only when a FGFR fusion protein is present. In one embodiment, the antibody directed to and FGFR fusion comprising SEQ ID NO: 79, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 150, 158, 159, 160, 161, 516, 518 539, 540, 541, 542, 543, 544, 545, 546, or 547. In a further embodiment, the FGFR-fusion is an FGFR-TACC fusion. In some embodiments, the FGFR is FGFR1, FGFR2, FGFR3, or FGFR4. In other embodiments, the FGFR-TACC fusion is FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, or FGFR3-TACC3. In some embodiments the sample from the subject is a tissue sample. In some embodiments, the sample is a paraffin embedded tissue section. In some embodiments, the tissue sample from the subject is a tumor sample.

An aspect of the invention provides for a method for detecting the presence of a FGFR fusion in a human subject. In one embodiment, the method comprises obtaining a biological sample from the human subject. In some embodiments the sample from the subject is a tissue sample. In some embodiments, the sample is a paraffin embedded tissue section. In some embodiments, the tissue sample from the subject is a tumor sample. In some embodiments, the sample is incubated with an agent that binds to an FGFR fusion molecule, such as an antibody. In another embodiment, the detection or determination comprises protein expression analysis, for example by western blot analysis, ELISA, immunostaining or other antibody detection methods. In some embodiments, the method further comprises assessing whether to administer a FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor based on the expression pattern of the subject. In further embodiments, the method comprises administering a FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor to the subject. In other embodiments, the FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor comprises an oral pan-FGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor. In other embodiments, the FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor comprises JNJ-42756493. In another embodiment, the method comprises detecting whether or not there is a FGFR fusion present in the subject. In one embodiment, the detecting comprises measuring FGFR fusion protein levels by ELISA using an antibody directed to SEQ ID NO: 79, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 150, 158, 159, 160, 161, 516, 518 539, 540, 541, 542, 543, 544, 545, 546, or 547; western blot using an antibody directed to SEQ ID NO: 79, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 150, 158, 159, 160, 161, 516, 518 539, 540, 541, 542, 543, 544, 545, 546, or 547; immunostaining using an antibody directed to SEQ ID NO: 79, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 150, 158, 159, 160, 161, 516, 518, 539, 540, 541, 542, 543, 544, 545, 546, or 547; mass spectroscopy, isoelectric focusing, or a combination of the listed methods. In some embodiments, the FGFR-fusion is an FGFR-TACC fusion. In other embodiments, the FGFR is FGFR1, FGFR2, FGFR3, or FGFR4. In other embodiments, the FGFR-TACC fusion is FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, or FGFR3-TACC3.

An aspect of the invention provides for a method for detecting the presence of a FGFR fusion in a human subject. In one embodiment, the method comprises obtaining a biological sample from a human subject. In some embodiments, the sample is incubated with an agent that binds to an FGFR fusion molecule, such as a probe, a nucleic acid primer, and the like. In other embodiments, the detection or determination comprises nucleic acid sequencing, selective hybridization, selective amplification, gene expression analysis, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the method further comprises assessing whether to administer a FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor based on the expression pattern of the subject. In further embodiments, the method comprises administering a FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor to the subject. In another embodiment, the method comprises detecting whether or not there is a nucleic acid sequence encoding a FGFR fusion protein in the subject. In one embodiment, the nucleic acid sequence comprises any one of SEQ ID NOS: 1-77, 80-84, 95-145, 515, 517, 519-527, or 530-538. In another embodiment, the detecting comprises using hybridization, amplification, or sequencing techniques to detect a FGFR fusion. In a further embodiment, the amplification uses primers comprising SEQ ID NO: 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167, 168, 169, 495, 496, 497, 498, 499, 500, 501, 502, 503, 504, 505, 506, 507, 508, 509 or 510. In some embodiments, the FGFR-fusion is an FGFR-TACC fusion. In other embodiments, the FGFR is FGFR1, FGFR2, FGFR3, or FGFR4. In other embodiments, the FGFR-TACC fusion is FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, or FGFR3-TACC3.

An aspect of the invention provides for a method of initiating oncogenic transformation in vitro. The method comprises (a) transducing cells cultured in vitro with FGFR-TACC fusion DNA; and (b) determining whether the cells acquire the ability to grow in anchorage-independent conditions, form multi-layered foci, or a combination thereof.

An aspect of the invention provides for a method of initiating oncogenic transformation in vivo. The method comprises (a) transducing cells cultured in vitro with FGFR-TACC fusion DNA; (b) injecting a mouse with the transduced cells; and (c) determining whether a tumor grows in the mouse. In one embodiment, the injecting is a subcutaneous or intracranial injection.

An aspect of the invention provides a method of identifying a compound that decreases the oncogenic activity of a FGFR-TACC fusion. The method comprises (a) transducing a cell cultured in vitro with FGFR-TACC DNA; (b) contacting a cell with a ligand source for an effective period of time; and (c) determining whether the cells acquire the ability to grow in anchorage-independent conditions, form multi-layered foci, or a combination thereof, compared to cells cultured in the absence of the test compound.

In one embodiment, the method can comprise contacting a sample from the subject with an antibody specific for a FGFR fusion molecule, and determining the presence of an immune complex. In another embodiment, the method can comprise contacting a sample from the subject with an antibody specific for a FGFR molecule, or a TACC molecule, and determining the presence of an immune complex. In another embodiment, the antibody can recognize the FGFR3 C-terminal region, or the TACC3 N-terminal region, or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, the antibody can recognize the FGFR3 C-terminal region, or the TACC3 N-terminal region, or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, the method can comprise contacting a sample from the subject with an antibody specific for a FGFR molecule, or a TACC molecule, or a FGFR fusion molecule, and determining the amount of an immune complex formed compared to the amount of immune complex formed in non-tumor cells or tissue, wherein an increased amount of an immune complex indicates the presence of an FGFR fusion.

In one embodiment, the method can comprise contacting a sample from the subject with primers specific for a FGFR fusion molecule, and determining the presence of an PCR product. In another embodiment, the method can comprise contacting a sample from the subject with primer specific for a FGFR molecule, or a TACC molecule, and determining the presence of a PCR product. In another embodiment, the primers can recognize the nucleic acids encoding a FGFR3 C-terminal region, or nucleic acids encoding a TACC3 N-terminal region, or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, the method can comprise contacting a sample from the subject with primers specific for a FGFR molecule, or a TACC molecule, or a FGFR fusion molecule, and determining the amount of PCR product formed compared to the amount of PCR product formed in non-tumor cells or tissue, wherein an increased amount of PCR product indicates the presence of an FGFR fusion.

An aspect of the invention provides for a purified fusion protein comprising the tyrosine kinase domain of an FGFR protein fused to the TACC domain of a transforming acidic coiled-coil-containing (TACC) protein. In one embodiment, the FGFR protein is FGFR1, FGFR2, FGFR3, or FGFR4. In one embodiment, the TACC protein is TACC1, TACC2, or TACC3. In one embodiment, the fusion protein is FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, or FGFR3-TACC3. In one embodiment, the fusion protein comprises SEQ ID NO: 79, SEQ ID NO: 158, SEQ ID NO: 159, SEQ ID NO: 160, SEQ ID NO: 161, SEQ ID NO: 539, SEQ ID NO: 540, SEQ ID NO: 541, SEQ ID NO: 542, SEQ ID NO: 543, SEQ ID NO: 545, SEQ ID NO: 546, or SEQ ID NO: 547. In one embodiment, the fusion protein has a breakpoint comprising at least 3 consecutive amino acids from amino acids 730-758 of SEQ ID NO: 90 and comprising at least 3 consecutive amino acids from amino acids 549-838 of SEQ ID NO: 92. In one embodiment, the fusion protein has a breakpoint comprising SEQ ID NO: 78, SEQ ID NO: 85, SEQ ID NO: 86, SEQ ID NO: 87, SEQ ID NO:89, SEQ ID NO: 516, or SEQ ID NO:518. In one embodiment, the fusion protein comprises SEQ ID NO: 150. In one embodiment, the fusion protein has a breakpoint comprising at least 3 consecutive amino acids from amino acids 746-762 of SEQ ID NO: 146 and comprising at least 3 consecutive amino acids from amino acids 572-590 of SEQ ID NO: 148. In one embodiment, the fusion protein has a breakpoint comprising SEQ ID NO: 88.

An aspect of the invention provides for a cDNA encoding a fusion protein comprising the tyrosine kinase domain of FGFR fused to the TACC domain of TACC. In one embodiment the FGFR is FGFR1, FGFR2, FGFR3, or FGFR4. In one embodiment, the TACC is TACC1, TACC2, or TACC3. In one embodiment, the fusion protein is FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, or FGFR3-TACC3. In one embodiment, the cDNA comprises SEQ ID NO: 94, SEQ ID NO: 530, SEQ ID NO: 531, SEQ ID NO: 532, SEQ ID NO: 533, SEQ ID NO: 534, SEQ ID NO: 535, SEQ ID NO: 536, SEQ ID NO: 537 or SEQ ID NO: 538. In one embodiment, the cDNA has a breakpoint comprising at least 9 consecutive in-frame nucleotides from nucleotides 2443-2530 of SEQ ID NO: 91 and comprising at least 9 consecutive in-frame nucleotides from nucleotides 1800-2847 of SEQ ID NO: 93. In one embodiment, the cDNA has a breakpoint comprising any one of SEQ ID NOs: 1-77, or SEQ ID NOs: 519-527. In one embodiment, the cDNA comprises SEQ ID NO: 151. In one embodiment, the cDNA has a breakpoint comprising at least 9 consecutive in-frame nucleotides from nucleotides 3178-3228 of SEQ ID NO: 147 and comprising at least 9 consecutive in-frame nucleotides from nucleotides 2092-2794 of SEQ ID NO: 149. In one embodiment, the cDNA has a breakpoint comprising SEQ ID NO: 83. In one embodiment, the cDNA comprises a combination of exons 1-16 of FGFR3 spliced 5′ to a combination of exons 8-16 of TACC3, wherein a breakpoint occurs in: a) any one of exons 1-16 of FGFR3 and any one of exons 8-16 of TACC3; b) any one of introns 1-16 of FGFR3 and any one of exons 8-16 of TACC3; c) any one of exons 1-16 of FGFR3 and any one of introns 7-16 of TACC3; or d) any one of introns 1-16 of FGFR3 and any one of introns 7-16 of TACC3. In one embodiment, the cDNA comprises a combination of exons 1-17 of FGFR1 spliced 5′ to a combination of exons 7-13 of TACC1, wherein a breakpoint occurs in any one of exons 1-17 of FGFR3 and any one of exons 7-13 of TACC3. In one embodiment, the cDNA comprises a combination of exons 1-18 of FGFR2 spliced 5′ to a combination of exons 1-23 of TACC2.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

This patent or application file contains at least one drawing executed in color. Copies of this patent or patent application publication with color drawing(s) will be provided by the Office upon request and payment of the necessary fee.

FIG. 1A is a graph that shows genes recurrently involved in gene fusions in TCGA. Only genes involved in at least three gene fusions across different samples are displayed.

FIGS. 1B-1, 1B-2, 1B-3 and 1B-4 show an FGFR3-TACC3 gene fusion identified by whole transcriptome sequencing of GSCs. 76 split-reads (SEQ ID NOS: 2-77, respectively) are shown aligning on the breakpoint. The predicted reading frame at the breakpoint is shown at the top (FGFR3 nucleotide sequence (left) and TACC3 nucleotide sequence (right); SEQ ID NO: 1) with FGFR3 sequences below the predicted reading frame (left) and TACC3 (right). The putative amino acid sequence (SEQ ID NO: 78) corresponding to SEQ ID NO: 1 is shown above the predicted reading frame.

FIG. 1C shows an FGFR3-TACC3 gene fusion identified by whole transcriptome sequencing of GSCs. On the left, FGFR3-TACC3-specific PCR from cDNA derived from GSCs and GBM is shown. On the right, Sanger sequencing chromatogram shows the reading frame at the breakpoint (SEQ ID NO: 80) and putative translation of the fusion protein (SEQ ID NO: 85) in the positive samples.

FIG. 1D shows an FGFR3-TACC3 gene fusion identified by whole transcriptome sequencing of GSCs. Amino acid sequence of the FGFR3-TACC3 protein is shown (SEQ ID NO: 79). Residues corresponding to FGFR3 or to TACC3 (underlined) are shown. The fusion protein joins the tyrosine kinase domain of FGFR3 to the TACC domain of TACC3.

FIG. 1E shows an FGFR3-TACC3 gene fusion identified by whole transcriptome sequencing of GSCs. Genomic fusion of FGFR3 exon 17 with intron 7 of TACC3 is shown. In the fused mRNA, exon 16 of FGFR3 is spliced 5′ to exon 8 of TACC3. Filled arrows indicate the position of the fusion-genome primers, which generate fusion-specific PCR products in GSC-1123 and GBM-1123.

FIG. 2A shows recurrent gene fusions between FGFR and TACC genes in GBM. Specifically, FGFR3-TACC3 gene fusions are shown that were identified by exome sequencing analysis. Split-reads are shown aligning the genomic breakpoints of FGFR3 and TACC3 genes in the four TCGA GBM samples. For TCGA-27-1835, SEQ ID NO: 95 shows the reading frame at the breakpoint (bold), while SEQ ID NOS: 96-107, respectively, show alignments of the genomic breakpoints. For TCGA-19-5958, SEQ ID NO: 108 shows the reading frame at the breakpoint (bold), while SEQ ID NOS: 109-111, respectively, show alignments of the genomic breakpoints. For TCGA-06-6390, SEQ ID NO: 112 shows the reading frame at the breakpoint (bold), while SEQ ID NOS: 113-131, respectively, show alignments of the genomic breakpoints. For TCGA-12-0826, SEQ ID NO: 132 shows the reading frame at the breakpoint (bold), while SEQ ID NOS: 133-145, respectively, show alignments of the genomic breakpoints.

FIG. 2B shows recurrent gene fusions between FGFR and TACC genes in GBM. On the left, a gel of FGFR-TACC-specific PCR is shown for FGFR3-TACC3 from a GBM cDNA sample. On the right, Sanger sequencing chromatograms show the reading frame at the breakpoint (SEQ ID NO: 81) and putative translation of the fusion protein (SEQ ID NO: 86) in the positive samples.

FIG. 2C shows recurrent gene fusions between FGFR and TACC genes in GBM. On the left, a gel of FGFR-TACC-specific PCR is shown for FGFR3-TACC3 from a GBM cDNA sample. On the right, Sanger sequencing chromatograms show the reading frame at the breakpoint (SEQ ID NO: 82) and putative translation of the fusion protein (SEQ ID NO: 87) in the positive samples.

FIG. 2D shows recurrent gene fusions between FGFR and TACC genes in GBM. Co-outlier expression of FGFR3 and TACC3 in four GBM tumors from Atlas-TCGA is shown in the plot.

FIG. 2E shows recurrent gene fusions between FGFR and TACC genes in GBM. CNV analysis shows micro-amplifications of the rearranged portions of the FGFR3 and TACC3 genes in the same four Atlas-TCGA GBM samples.

FIG. 2F shows recurrent gene fusions between FGFR and TACC genes in GBM. On the left, a gel of FGFR-TACC-specific PCR is shown for FGFR1-TACC1 from a GBM cDNA sample. On the right, Sanger sequencing chromatograms show the reading frame at the breakpoint (SEQ ID NO: 83) and putative translation of the fusion protein (SEQ ID NO: 88) in the positive samples.

FIG. 2G shows recurrent gene fusions between FGFR and TACC genes in GBM. On the left, a gel of FGFR-TACC-specific PCR is shown for FGFR3-TACC3 from a GBM cDNA sample. On the right, Sanger sequencing chromatograms show the reading frame at the breakpoint (SEQ ID NO: 84) and putative translation of the fusion protein (SEQ ID NO: 89) in the positive samples.

FIG. 3A shows transforming activity of FGFR-TACC fusion proteins. FGFR1-TACC1 and FGFR3-TACC3 induce anchorage-independent growth in Rat1A fibroblasts. The number of soft agar colonies was scored from triplicate samples 14 days after plating. Representative microphotographs are shown.

FIG. 3B are photomicrographs showing of immunofluoresence staining of tumors from mice injected with Ink4A;Arf−/− astrocytes expressing FGFR3-TACC3 showing positivity for glioma-specific (Nestin, Oig2 and GFAP) and proliferation markers (Ki67 and pHH3). Sub-cutaneous tumors were generated by Ink4A;Arf−/− astrocytes expressing FGFR-TACC fusions.

FIG. 3C shows Kaplan-Meier survival curves of mice injected intracranially with pTomo-shp53 (n=8) or pTomo-EGFRvIII-shp53 (n=7) (green line; “light grey” in black and white image) and pTomo-FGFR3-TACC3-shp53 (n=8, red line; “dark grey” in black and white image). Points on the curves indicate deaths (log-rank test, p=0.00001, pTomo-shp53 vs. pTomo-FGFR3-TACC3-shp53).

FIG. 3D shows representative photomicrographs of Hematoxylin and Eosin staining of advanced FGFR3-TACC3-shp53 generated tumors showing histological features of high-grade glioma. Of note is the high degree of infiltration of the normal brain by the tumor cells. Immunofluorescence staining shows that glioma and stem cell markers (Nestin, Olig2 and GFAP), the proliferation markers (Ki67 and pHH3) and the FGFR3-TACC3 protein are widely expressed in the FGFR3-TACC3-shp53 brain tumors. F1-T1: FGFR1-TACC1; F3-T3: FGFR3-TACC3; F3-T3-K508M: FGFR3-TACC3-K508M.

FIG. 4A shows that FGFR3-TACC3 localizes to spindle poles, delays mitotic progression and induces chromosome segregation defects and aneuploidy Constitutive auto-phosphorylation of FGFR3-TACC3 fusion. Ink4A;Arf−/− astrocytes transduced with empty lentivirus or a lentivirus expressing FGFR3-TACC3 or FGFR3-TACC3-K508M were left untreated (0) or treated with 100 nM of the FGFR inhibitor PD173074 for the indicated times. Phospho-proteins and total proteins were analyzed by Western blot using the indicated antibodies.

FIG. 4B shows that FGFR3-TACC3 localizes to spindle poles, delays mitotic progression and induces chromosome segregation defects. Photomicrographs are shown of confocal microscopy analysis of FGFR3-TACC3 in Ink4A;Arf−/− astrocytes. Maximum intensity projection of z-stacked images shows FGFR3-TACC3 (red; “dark grey” in black and white image) coating the spindle poles of a representative mitotic cell (upper panels). In telophase (lower panels) FGFR3-TACC3 localizes to the mid-body. α-tubulin (green; “grey” in black and white image), DNA (DAPI, blue; “light grey” in black and white image).

FIG. 4C shows representative fluorescence video-microscopy for cells transduced with vector or FGFR3-TACC3.

FIG. 4D shows a Box and Whisker plot representing the analysis of the time from nuclear envelope breakdown (NEB) to anaphase onset and from NEB to nuclear envelope reconstitution (NER). The duration of mitosis was measured by following 50 mitoses for each condition by time-lapse microscopy.

FIG. 4E shows that FGFR3-TACC3 localizes to spindle poles, delays mitotic progression and induces chromosome segregation defects. Representative images are shown of cells with chromosome missegregation. Arrows point to chromosome misalignments, lagging chromosomes, and chromosome bridges.

FIG. 4F shows quantitative analysis of segregation defects in Rat1A expressing FGFR1-TACC1 and FGFR3-TACC3. F3-T3: FGFR3-TACC3; F3-T3-K508M: FGFR3-TACC3-K508M.

FIG. 5A shows karyotype analysis of Rat1A cells transduced with control, FGFR3, TACC3 or FGFR3-TACC3 expressing lentivirus. Distribution of chromosome counts of cells arrested in mitosis and analyzed for karyotypes using DAPI. Chromosomes were counted in 100 metaphase cells for each condition to determine the ploidy and the diversity of chromosome counts within the cell population. FGFR3-TACC3 fusion induces aneuploidy.

FIG. 5B shows representative karyotypes and FIG. 5C shows distribution of chromosome counts of human astrocytes transduced with control or FGFR3-TACC3 expressing lentivirus. Chromosomes were counted in 100 metaphase cells for each condition to determine the ploidy and the diversity of chromosome counts within the cell population.

FIG. 5D shows quantitative analysis of chromosome number in 100 metaphase cells for each condition to determine the ploidy and the diversity of chromosome counts within the cell population. (n=3 independent experiments).

FIG. 6A shows inhibition of FGFR-TK activity corrects the aneuploidy initiated by FGFR3-TACC3. The upper panel is a karyotype analysis of Rat1A cells transduced with control or FGFR3-TACC3 lentivirus and treated with vehicle (DMSO) or PD173470 (100 nM) for five days. The lower panel shows the ploidy and the diversity of chromosome counts within the cell population were determined by quantitative analysis of chromosome number in 100 metaphase cells for each condition.

FIG. 6B shows inhibition of FGFR-TK activity corrects the aneuploidy initiated by FGFR3-TACC3. Correction of premature sister chromatid separation (PMSCS) by PD173470 in cells expressing FGFR3-TACC3. Panels show representative metaphase spreads. DNA was stained by DAPI. FIG. 6C shows quantitative analysis of metaphases with loss of sister chromatid cohesion (n=3; p=0.001, FGFR3-TACC3 treated with DMSO vs. FGFR3-TACC3 treated with PD173470).

FIG. 7A shows inhibition of FGFR-TK activity suppresses tumor growth initiated by FGFR3-TACC3. Growth rate of Rat1A transduced with the indicated lentiviruses and treated for three days with increasing concentrations of PD173074. Cell growth was determined by the MTT assay. Data are presented as the means±standard error (n=4).

FIG. 7B shows the growth rate of GSC-1123 treated with PD173470 at the indicated concentrations for the indicated times. Cell growth was determined by the MTT assay. Data are presented as the means±standard error (n=4).

FIG. 7C shows the growth inhibitory effect of silencing FGFR3-TACC3 fusion. At the left, parallel cultures of GSC-1123 cells were transduced in triplicate. Rat1A cells expressing FGFR3-TACC3 fusion were transduced with lentivirus expressing a non-targeting shRNA (Ctr) or shRNA sequences targeting FGFR3 (sh2, sh3, sh4). Five days after infection cells were plated at density of 2×10⁴ cells/well in triplicate and the number of trypan blue excluding cells was scored at the indicated times. Infection with lentivirus expressing sh-3 and sh-4, the most efficient FGFR3 silencing sequences reverted the growth rate of FGFR3-TACC3 expressing cultures to levels comparable to those of Rat1A transduced with empty vector. Values are the means±standard deviation (n=3). At th right sided figure, GSC-1123 cells were transduced with lentivirus expressing a non-targeting shRNA (sh-Ctr) or lentivirus expressing sh-3 and sh-4 sequences targeting FGFR3. Western Blot analysis was performed on parallel cultures using the FGFR3 antibody to the detect FGFT3-TACC3 fusion protein. β-actin is shown as a control for loading.

FIG. 7D shows that the FGFR inhibitor PD173074 suppresses tumor growth of glioma sub-cutaneous xenografts generated by Ink4A;Arf−/− astrocytes expressing FGFR3-TACC3. After tumor establishment (200-300 mm³, arrow) mice were treated with vehicle or PD173074 (50 mg/kg) for 14 days. Values are mean tumor volumes±standard error (n=7 mice per group).

FIG. 7E is a Kaplan-Meier analysis of glioma-bearing mice following orthotopic implantation of Ink4A;Arf−/− astrocytes transduced with FGFR3-TACC3. After tumor engraftment mice were treated with vehicle (n=9) or AZD4547 (50 mg/kg) (n=7) for 20 days (p=0.001).

FIG. 8 shows a schematic of the TX-Fuse pipeline for the identification of fusion transcripts from RNA-Seq data generated from nine GSC cultures. The continued figure shows a schematic of the Exome-Fuse pipeline for the identification of gene fusion rearrangements from DNA exome sequences of 84 GBM TCGA tumor samples.

FIGS. 9A-D shows the validation of fusion transcripts identified by RNA-seq of nine GSCs. Sanger sequencing chromatograms show the reading frames at the breakpoint and putative translation of the fusion proteins in the positive samples (right side). The left side shows gels of RT-PCR conducted. (A) POLR2A-WRAP53. DNA sequence disclosed as SEQ ID NO: 319 and protein sequence disclosed as SEQ ID NO: 320. (B) CAPZB-UBR4. DNA sequence disclosed as SEQ ID NO: 321 and protein sequence disclosed as SEQ ID NO: 322. (C) ST8SIA4-PAM. DNA sequence disclosed as SEQ ID NO: 323 and protein sequence disclosed as SEQ ID NO: 324. (D) PIGU-NCOA6. DNA sequence disclosed as SEQ ID NO: 325 and protein sequence disclosed as SEQ ID NO: 326.

FIGS. 9E-1, 9E-2, 9E-3, 9E-4, 9E-5, 9E-6, 9E-7, and 9E-8 show the fusion transcripts identified by whole transcriptome sequencing of nine GSCs. 54 split-reads (SEQ ID NOS 329-382, respectively, in order of appearance) are shown aligning on the breakpoint of the POLR2A-WRAP53 fusion (SEQ ID NO: 327). The predicted reading frame at the breakpoint is shown at the top with POLR2A sequences in red (left) and WRAP53 in blue (right). Protein sequence disclosed as SEQ ID NO: 328. On the continued page, 48 split-reads (SEQ ID NOS 385-432, respectively, in order of appearance) are shown aligning on the breakpoint of the CAPZB-UBR4 fusion (SEQ ID NO: 383). The predicted reading frame at the breakpoint is shown at the top with CAPZB sequences in red (left) and UBR4 in blue (right). Protein sequence disclosed as SEQ ID NO: 384. On the continued page after, 29 split-reads (SEQ ID NOS 435-463, respectively, in order of appearance) are shown aligning on the breakpoint of the ST8SIA4-PAM fusion (SEQ ID NO: 433). The predicted reading frame at the breakpoint is shown at the top with ST8SIA4 sequences in red (left) and PAM in blue (right). Protein sequence disclosed as SEQ ID NO: 434. On the subsequent continued page, 17 split-reads (SEQ ID NOS 466-482, respectively, in order of appearance) are shown (top) aligning on the breakpoint of the PIGU-NCOA6 fusion (SEQ ID NO: 464). The predicted reading frame at the breakpoint is shown at the top with PIGU sequences in red (left) and NCOA6 in blue (right). Protein sequence disclosed as SEQ ID NO: 465. Also (below), 6 split-reads (SEQ ID NOS 485-490, respectively, in order of appearance) are shown aligning on the breakpoint of the IFNAR2-IL10RB fusion (SEQ ID NO: 483). The predicted reading frame at the breakpoint is shown at the top with IFNAR2 sequences in red (left) and IL10RB in blue (right). Protein sequence disclosed as SEQ ID NO: 484.

FIG. 10A shows the analysis and validation of the expression of fused transcripts in GSCs and GBM sample. Expression measured by read depth from RNA-seq data. Light grey arcs indicate predicted components of transcripts fused together. Overall read depth (blue; “grey” in black and white image) and split insert depth (red; “dark grey” in black and white image) are depicted in the graph, with a 50-read increment and a maximum range of 1800 reads. Note the very high level of expression in the regions of the genes implicated in the fusion events, particularly for FGFR3-TACC3.

FIG. 10B shows the analysis and validation of the expression of fused transcripts in GSCs and GBM sample. Top panel, qRT-PCR showing the very high expression of FGFR3 and TACC3 mRNA sequences included in the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion transcript in GSC-1123. Bottom panel, for comparison the expression of sequences of WRAP53 mRNA included in the POLR2A-WRAP53 fusion in GSC-0114 is also shown.

FIG. 10C shows the expression of the FGFR3-TACC3 protein in GSC-1123 and GBM-1123. Western blot analysis with a monoclonal antibody, which recognizes the N-terminal region of human FGFR3 shows expression of a ˜150 kD protein in GSC-1123 but not in the GSC cultures GSC-0331 and GSC-0114, which lack the FGFR3-TACC3 rearrangement.

FIG. 10D shows the analysis and validation of the expression of fused transcripts in GSCs and GBM sample. Immunostaining analysis with the FGFR3 antibody of the tumor GBM-1123 (top panel) and a GBM tumor lacking the FGFR3-TACC3 rearrangement. FGFR3 (red; “light grey” in black and white image), DNA (DAPI, blue; “grey” in black and white image). The pictures were taken at low (left) and high (right) magnification.

FIGS. 10E-1, 10E-2, 10E-3, 10E-4, 10E-5, and 10E-6 shows MS/MS analysis of the ˜150 kD fusion protein immunoprecipitated by the monoclonal anti-FGFR3 antibody from GSC-1123, identifying three unique peptides mapping to the FGFR3 (FGFR3 Peptide 1 (SEQ ID NO: 492), 2 (SEQ ID NO: 493), and 3 (SEQ ID NO: 494)) and three peptides mapping to the C-terminal region of TACC3 (TACC Peptide 1 (SEQ ID NO: 156), 2 (SEQ ID NO: 157), and 3 (SEQ ID NO: 491)).

FIGS. 11A-C shows Rat1A cells transduced with control lentivirus or lentivurus expressing FGFR3, TACC3, FGFR3-TACC3 (FIG. 11A) that were analyzed by Western blot with an antibody recognizing the N-terminus of FGFR3 (included in the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion protein) or the N-terminus of TACC3 (not included in the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion protein). FIG. 11B shows quantitative Western blot analysis of endogenous FGFR3-TACC3 in GSC-1123 compared with lentivirally expressed FGFR3-TACC3 in Rat1A. FIG. 11C shows Western blot analysis of FGFR3-TACC3 and FGFR3-TACC3-K508M in Rat1A. α-tubulin is shown as a control for loading.

FIGS. 11D-F shows expression analyses of FGFR3-TACC3 fusion construct (FIG. 11D) FGFR3 immunostaining of GBM-1123 (left, upper panel), BTSC1123 (right, upper panel), mouse GBM induced by FGFR3-TACC3 expressing lentivirus (left, lower panel), and sub-cutaneous xenograft of mouse astrocytes transformed by FGFR3-TACC3 fusion (right, lower panel); FGFR3-TACC3, red (“light grey” in black and white image); DNA (DAPI), blue (“grey” in black and white image). FIG. 11E shows quantification of FGFR3-TACC3 positive cells in the tumors and cultures of cells shown in FIG. 11D. FIG. 11F shows a quantitative Western blot analysis of ectopic FGFR3-TACC3 fusion protein in mouse astrocytes and FGFR3-TACC3 induced mouse GBM (mGBM-15 and mGBM-17) compared with the endogenous expression in GBM1123. β-actin is shown as a control for loading. F3-T3: FGFR3-TACC3. α-tubulin or β-actin is shown as a control for loading.

FIG. 12A shows a western blot. Ink4A;Arf−/− astrocytes transduced with empty lentivirus or a lentivirus expressing FGFR3-TACC3 were starved of mitogens and left untreated (time 0) or treated with FGF-2 at concentration of 50 ng/ml for the indicated times. Phospho-proteins and total proteins were analyzed by Western blot using the indicated antibodies. α-tubulin is shown as a control for loading.

FIG. 12B show western blots. Ink4A;Arf−/− astrocytes transduced with empty lentivirus or a lentivirus expressing FGFR3-TACC3 or FGFR3-TACC3-K508M were starved of mitogens and left untreated (time 0) or treated for 10 min with FGF-1 at the indicated concentrations. Phospho-proteins and total proteins were analyzed by Western blot using the indicated antibodies. β-actin is shown as a control for loading.

FIG. 12C show western blots. Ink4A;Arf−/− astrocytes transduced with empty lentivirus or a lentivirus expressing FGFR3-TACC3 or FGFR3-TACC3-K508M were starved of mitogens and left untreated (time 0) or treated for 10 min with FGF-8 at the indicated concentrations. Phospho-proteins and total proteins were analyzed by Western blot using the indicated antibodies. β-actin is shown as a control for loading.

FIGS. 12D-F shows mitotic localization of FGFR3-TACC3 fusion protein. FIG. 12D shows maximum intensity projection confocal image of a representative FGFR3-TACC3 expressing Ink4A;Arf−/− mouse astrocyte at metaphase immunostained using the FGFR3 antibody (red; “dark grey” in black and white image). FGFR3-TACC3 displays asymmetric localization on top of one spindle pole. FIG. 12E shows maximum intensity projection confocal image of a representative TACC3 expressing Ink4A;Arf−/− mouse astrocyte at metaphase immunostained with the TACC3 antibody (red; (“dark grey” in black and white image). TACC3 staining coincides with the spindle microtubules. FIG. 12F shows maximum intensity projection confocal image of a representative FGFR3 expressing Ink4A;Arf−/− mouse astrocyte at metaphase immunostained with the FGFR3 antibody (red; (“dark grey” in black and white image). FGFR3 does not show a specific staining pattern in mitosis. Cells were co-immunostained using α-tubulin (green; (“light grey” in black and white image) to visualize the mitotic spindle. DNA was counterstained with DAPI (blue; (“grey” in black and white image). Images were acquired at 0.250 μm intervals. Endogenous levels of FGFR3 or TACC3 were undetectable under the applied experimental conditions. F3-T3: FGFR3-TACC3.

FIG. 13A shows that the FGFR3-TACC3 protein induces chromosomal mis-segregation, chromatid cohesion defects and defective spindle checkpoint. Quantitative analysis of metaphase spreads for chromosome segregation defects in Ink4A;ARF−/− astrocytes expressing vector control or FGFR3-TACC3 (upper panel). Microscope imaging analysis of chromosome segregation defects in Ink4A;Arf−/− astrocytes expressing FGFR3-TACC3 or vector control. Representative images of cells with chromosome missegregation. Arrows point to chromosome misalignments, lagging chromosomes and chromosome bridges.

FIGS. 13B-D shows representative images of premature sister chromatid separation (PMSCS) in Ink4A;Arf−/− astrocytes (FIG. 13B) and Rat1A cells (FIG. 13C) expressing FGFR3-TACC3. Left, panels show representative metaphase spreads. Right, quantitative analysis of metaphases with loss of sister chromatid cohesion. The number of mitosis with PMSCS in Ink4A;Arf−/− astrocytes was scored in at least 100 metaphases for each condition in three independent experiments. The number of mitosis with PMSCS was scored in triplicate samples of Rat1A cells. FIG. 13D is a graph showing nocodazole was added for the indicated durations to Rat1A-H2B-GFP cells transduced with the specified lentiviruses. The mitotic index at each time point was determined by quantitating the H2B-GFP-positive cells in mitosis at each time point. Data are presented as average and standard deviation (n=3). F3-T3: FGFR3-TACC3.

FIGS. 14A-B shows growth curves of human primary astrocytes transduced with lentivirus expressing FGFR3-TACC3 fusion or the empty vector. An analysis was conducted of FGFR3-TACC3 fusion mediated growth alteration and specific effect of RTK inhibitors on cells carrying FGFR-TACC fusions. FIG. 14A is a graph that shows cell proliferation of human primary astrocytes transduced with lentivirus expressing FGFR3-TACC3 fusion or the empty vector was determined by the MTT assay 7 days after infection (passage 1). Values are the means±standard deviation (n=4). p-value: 0.0033. FIG. 14B is a graph that shows cell proliferation of human primary astrocytes transduced with lentivirus expressing FGFR3-TACC3 fusion or the empty vector was determined by the MTT assay six weeks after the infection (passage 10). Values are the means±standard deviation (n=4). p-value: 0.0018.

FIGS. 14C-D shows specific growth inhibitory effect by FGFR inhibitors on FGFR-TACC fusion expressing cells. Cell growth was determined by MTT assay. Rat1A cells transduced with the indicated lentivirus were treated for three days with BGJ398 (FIG. 14C) or AZD4547 (FIG. 14D) at the indicated concentration. Values are the means±standard error (n=4).

FIG. 14E shows the growth inhibitory effect of silencing FGFR3-TACC3 fusion. (left) GSC-1123 cells were transduced in triplicate with lentivirus expressing a non-targeting shRNA (Ctr) or lentivirus expressing sh-3 and sh-4 sequences targeting FGFR3. Five days after infection cells were plated at density of 2×10⁴ cells/well in triplicate and the number of trypan blue excluding cells was scored at the indicated times. Values are the means±standard deviation (n=3). (right) Western Blot analysis was performed on parallel cultures collected five days after infection using the FGFR3 antibody to the detect FGFT3-TACC3 fusion protein. β-actin is shown as a control for loading. (**: p-value=<0.005; ***: p-value=<0.0001).

FIG. 15 shows a survival plot of cells treated with PD173074, NVP-BGJ398, or AZD4547.

FIG. 16 shows an FGFR3-TACC3 gene fusion identified by whole transcriptome sequencing of GSCs. The histogram describes the absolute frequency of each forward and reverse sequence read spanning the breakpoint.

FIG. 17 shows transforming activity of FGFR3-TACC3. FGFR3-TACC3 induces anchorage-independent growth in Rat1A fibroblasts (top panels) and a transformed phenotype in Ink4A;Arf−/− primary astrocytes (bottom panels).

FIG. 18 shows transforming activity of FGFR3-TACC3. Kaplan-Meier survival curves of mice injected intracranially with pTomo-shp53 (n=8), pTomo-FGFR3-TACC3-shp53 (n=8) and pTomo-EGFRvIII-shp53 (n=7) are shown. Points on the curves indicate deaths (log-rank test, p=0.025, pTomo-shp53 vs. pTomo-FGFR3-TACC3-shp53).

FIG. 19 shows that inhibition of FGFR-TK activity corrects the aneuploidy and suppresses tumor growth initiated by FGFR3-TACC3. Short-term growth inhibition assays are shown of Rat1A transduced with the indicated lentivirus and treated with PD173470 at the indicated concentrations. Cells were treated for three days. Cell viability was determined by the MTT assay. Error bars show means±standard error (n=4).

FIG. 20 is a growth inhibition assay of human astrocytes transduced with the indicated lentivirus and treated for four days with PD173470 at the indicated concentration. Cell viability was determined by the MTT assay. Error bars show means±standard error (n=4).

FIG. 21 is a graph showing a growth inhibition assay of human astrocytes transduced with the indicated lentivirus and treated for four days with PD173470 at the indicated concentration. Cell viability was determined by the MTT assay. Error bars show means±standard error (n=4).

FIG. 22 shows graphs of the survival of Rat1A cells in short-term growth inhibition assays. (Top graph) Rat1A cells were transduced with the indicated ptomo constructs and treated with PD173074 at the indicated concentrations. Cells were treated for three days. Cell viability was determined by the MTT assay. Error bars show means±standard error (n=4). In the bottom panel, a western blot photograph is shown.

FIG. 23 shows that inhibition of FGFR-TK activity corrects the aneuploidy and suppresses tumor growth initiated by FGFR3-TACC3. A plot is shown of karyotype analysis of Rat1A cells transduced with control or FGFR3-TACC3 lentivirus and treated with vehicle (DMSO) or PD173470 (100 nM) for five days.

FIG. 24 shows Survival of glioma-bearing mice was tracked following intracranial implantation of Ink4A;Arf−/− astrocytes transduced with FGFR3-TACC3. After tumor engraftment mice were treated with vehicle or AZD4547 (50 mg/kg) for 20 days (vehicle, n=7; AZD4547, n=6; p=0.001).

FIG. 25 shows the position of the peptides from FIGS. 10E1-10E6 in the amino acid sequence of the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion protein (SEQ ID NO: 79), which are highlighted in pink (FGFR3; underlined) and blue (TACC3; dotted lines).

FIG. 26 shows Kaplan-Meier analysis of IDH mutant and FGFR3-TACC3 positive human GBM. Log rank test p-value: 0.0169.

FIGS. 27A-B are pictures that shows tumor xenografts that were induced following sub-cutaneous injection of Ink4A;Arf−/− mouse astrocytes transduced with lentivirus expressing FGFR3-TACC3 (upper panel A, right flank) or FGFR1-TACC1 (lower panel B, right flank) fusion, but not with the empty vector (upper panel, left flank) or FGFR3-TACC3 carrying a K508M mutation in the kinase domain (FGFR3-TACC3-K508M; lower panel, left flank).

FIG. 28 shows constitutive auto-phosphorylation of FGFR3-TACC3 fusion. BTSC derived from FGFR3-TACC3 or RasV12 induced mouse GBM were left untreated or treated with 500 nM PD173074 for the indicated times. Phospho-proteins and total proteins were analyzed by Western blot using the indicated antibodies. β-actin is shown as a control for loading.

FIG. 29 shows Z-stacked confocal images of the representative FGFR3-TACC3 expressing Ink4A;Arf−/− mouse astrocyte shown as a maximum intensity projection. Cells were immunostained using FGFR3 (red; “dark grey” in black and white image) and α-tubulin (green; (“light grey” in black and white image). DNA was counterstained with DAPI (blue; (“grey” in black and white image). Images were acquired at 0.250 μm intervals. Coordinates of the image series are indicated. F3-T3: FGFR3-TACC3.

FIG. 30 shows examples of SKY karyotype analysis painting two different cells from the same culture of GSC-1123, illustrating the ongoing CIN and aneuploidy. Details of the karyotype analysis of 20 cells are reported in Table 6.

FIGS. 31-1, 31-2, and 31-3 are a graphical representation of segmented CNVs data visualized using the Integrated Genomic Viewers software. Three bladder Urothelial Carcinoma harbor FGFR3-TACC3 gene fusions (black box). Red indicates amplification (A), blue indicates deletion (D).

FIGS. 32-1, 32-2, and 32-3 are a graphical representation of segmented CNVs data visualized using the Integrated Genomic Viewers software. One Breast Carcinoma harbors FGFR3-TACC3 gene fusions (black box). Red indicates amplification (A), blue indicates deletion (D).

FIGS. 33-1, 33-2, and 33-3 are a graphical representation of segmented CNVs data visualized using the Integrated Genomic Viewers software. One Colorectal Carcinoma harbors FGFR3-TACC3 gene fusions (black box). Red indicates amplification (A), blue indicates deletion (D).

FIGS. 34-1, 34-2, and 34-3 are a graphical representation of segmented CNVs data visualized using the Integrated Genomic Viewers software. One Lung Squamous Cell Carcinoma harbors FGFR3-TACC3 gene fusions (black box). Red indicates amplification (A), blue indicates deletion (D).

FIGS. 35-1, 35-2, and 35-3 are a graphical representation of segmented CNVs data visualized using the Integrated Genomic Viewers software. One Head abd Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma harbors FGFR3-TACC3 gene fusions (black box). Red indicates amplification (A), blue indicates deletion (D).

FIG. 36 shows the structure of FGFR-TACC gene fusions identified by RT-PCR-Sanger sequencing (see also SEQ ID NOs: 530-547). Predicted FGFR-TACC fusion proteins encoded by the transcripts identified by RT-PCR. Regions corresponding to FGFR3 or TACC3 are shown in red or blue, respectively. FGFR1 and TACC1 corresponding regions are shown in yellow and green. On the left are indicated the FGFR and TACC exons joined in the fused mRNA; the presence of TACC3 introns is also reported when they are spliced in the fusion cDNA. On the right, the number of patients harboring the corresponding fusion variant is indicated. The novel transcripts discovered in this study are highlighted in red. Black arrows indicate the position of the primers used for the FGFR-TACC fusions screening.

FIGS. 37A-H show the identification and immunostaining of FGFR3-TACC3-positive tumors. Results from RT-PCR screening in representative samples from the Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital (A, C) and the Besta (B, D) datasets. M, DNA ladder. Schematic representation of the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion transcripts identified in samples GBM-4620 (C) and GBM-021 (D). The junction sequences on the mRNA (GBM-4620 (C) SEQ ID NO: 515; GBM-021 (D) SEQ ID NO: 517) and the reading frame and translation (GBM-4620 (C) SEQ ID NO: 516; GBM-021 (D) SEQ ID NO: 518) at the breakpoint are reported. Representative microphotographs of H&E and FGFR3 immunostaining in the FGFR3-TACC3 positive samples GBM-4620 (E) and GBM-021 (F) and two FGFR3-TACC3 negative samples (panels G and H); a, H&E, 10× magnification; b, H&E, 40× magnification; c, FGFR3, 10× magnification; d, FGFR3, 40× magnification. FIGS. 37C and 37D disclose chromatogram readings as SEQ ID NOs: 550 and 551, respectively.

FIGS. 38A-D show pre-clinical evaluation of FGFR3-TACC3 inhibition by JNJ-42756493. (A) Mouse astrocytes expressing FGFR3-TACC3 (F3T3), FGFR3-TACC3-KD (F3T3-KD) or the empty vector (Vector) were treated with the indicated concentration of JNJ-42756493. Cell viability was determined by the MTT assay. Error bars show mean±SEM (n=6). (B) Survival analysis of GIC28 1123 treated with JNJ-42756493. (C) The FGFR-TK inhibitor JNJ-42756493 suppresses tumor growth of subcutaneous tumors generated by GIC-1123. After tumor establishment (arrow) mice were treated with vehicle or JNJ-42756493 (12 mg/kg) for 14 days. Values are mean tumor volumes±SD, (n=9 mice per group). P-value of the slope calculated from the treatment starting point (arrow) is 0.04. (D) Photograph showing the tumors dissected from vehicle or JNJ-42756493 treated mice after two weeks of treatment.

FIGS. 39A-G show baseline and post-treatment Magnetic Resonance Imaging (Mill) of patients treated with JNJ-42756493. Patient 1 (Panels A-D). (A) Post-gadolinium T1 weighted images show the target lesion on the right parietal lobe. The interval (days) from the beginning of follow-up is indicated above each MRI. (B) Analysis of sum of product diameters (SPD) before and during the anti-FGFR treatment (RANO criteria). (C) Analysis of tumor volume (cm3) before and during the anti-FGFR treatment. During anti-FGFR treatment a stabilization of the tumor was observed according to RANO criteria and volumetry. (D) Perfusion images at baseline and after 20 days of anti-FGFR treatment. rCBV (relative cerebral blood volume). Post-gadolinium T1 weighted images with color overlay of rCBV are shown. Patient 2 (Panels E-G). (E) Two different MRI slice levels of superior and middle part of the lesion are presented. (F) Analysis of sum of product diameters (SPD) before and during the anti-FGFR treatment. During the anti-FGFR treatment a reduction of 22% of tumor size was observed. (G) Volumetric evaluation showed a 28% tumor reduction. Vertical red arrow indicates the start of anti-FGFR treatment (baseline).

FIG. 40 shows the genomic PCR images and Sanger sequences of FGFR3-TACC3 genomic breakpoints. Fusion specific PCR products and Sanger sequencing chromatograms showing the FGFR3-TACC3 genomic breakpoints (Sample #4451 SEQ ID NO:519; Sample # OPK-14 SEQ ID NO: 520; Sample # MB-22 SEQ ID NO: 521; Sample #3048 SEQ ID NO: 522; Sample #4373 SEQ ID NO: 523; Sample #4867 SEQ ID NO: 524; Sample #3808 SEQ ID NO: 525; Sample #27-1835 SEQ ID NO: 526; Sample #06-6390 SEQ ID NO: 527). The genomic sequences corresponding to FGFR3 and TACC3 are indicated in red or blue, respectively. M, DNA ladder; C-, Negative Control. FIG. 40 discloses chromatogram readings as SEQ ID NOS: 552-560, respectively, in order of appearance.

FIG. 41 shows schematics of FGFR3-TACC3 genomic breakpoints. Schematic representation of the genomic fusions between FGFR3 and TACC3 compared to the corresponding mRNA. In red and blue are reported the regions belonging to FGFR3 and TACC3, respectively. The genomic breakpoint coordinates, according to the genome build GRCh37/hg19, are indicated above each fusion gene.

FIGS. 42A-B show evaluation of the expression of FGFR3-TACC3 fusion elements. (A) Microphotographs of immunofluorescence staining of a representative GBM harboring FGFR3-TACC3 fusion using antibodies that recognize the N- and C-termini of FGFR3 (FGFR3-N, FGFR3-C) and TACC3 (TACC3-N, TACC3-C), red. Nuclei are counterstained with DAPI, blue. (B) Quantitative RT-PCR of four representative GBM carrying FGFR3-TACC3 fusion and three negative controls using primer pairs that amplify FGFR3 and TACC3 regions included in or excluded from the fusion transcripts, as indicated in the diagram. OAW28: ovarian cystoadenocarcinoma cell line harboring wild type FGFR3 and TACC3 genes; GBM55 and GBM0822: GBM harboring wild type FGFR3 and TACC3 genes; GBM3808; GBM1133; GBM0826; GBM3048: GBM harboring FGFR3-TACC3 (F3-T3) fusion. Error bars are SD of triplicate samples.

FIGS. 43A-C show the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion gene and protein are retained in recurrent GBM. (A) FGFR3-TACC3 fusion specific RT-PCR product from untreated and recurrent GBM from patient #3124. (B) Sanger sequencing chromatogram showing the identical reading frame at the breakpoint (SEQ ID NO: 517) and the putative translation of the fusion protein (SEQ ID NO: 86) in the untreated and recurrent tumor from the same patient. The fused exons at mRNA level are shown. Regions corresponding to FGFR3 and TACC3 are indicated in red and blue, respectively. T, threonine; S, serine; D, aspartic acid; V, valine; K, lysine; A, alanine. (C) Representative microphotographs of FGFR3 immunofluorescence (IF) staining in both untreated and recurrent GBM. Blue staining, DAPI; Red staining, FGFR3. 10× Magnification. FIG. 43B discloses chromatogram readings as SEQ ID NOs: 551 and 551, respectively, in order of appearance.

FIGS. 44A-B show PFS and OS of FGFR3-TACC3-positive glioma patients. (A) Kaplan-Meier curves in IDH wild-type glioma patients don't show significant differences in Progression Free Survival (PFS) between FGFR3-TACC3 positive (N=12, median PFS=11.20 months) and FGFR3-TACC3 negative (N=274, Median PFS=12.27 months) (P=0.85). (B) Kaplan-Meier curves in IDH wild-type glioma patients don't show significant differences in Overall Survival (OS) between FGFR3-TACC3 positive (N=12, Median OS=32.80 months) and FGFR3-TACC3 negative (N=326, Median OS=18.60 months) (P=0.6). In red FGFR3-TACC3 positive patients, in green FGFR3-TACC3 negative patients. Open circles represent censored patients.

FIG. 45 shows analysis of SNP6.0 arrays of GBM harboring CNVs of FGFR3 and TACC3 genomic loci. CNVs of the FGFR3/TACC3 genomic loci in “gain labeled” (LRR>0.2) TCGA samples. The CNA magnitudes (expressed as log 2 ratio) were classified using simple thresholds: deletion (x<−1), loss (−1<x≤−0.2), gain (0.2≤x<1) or amplification (x>1). Gains are in gradient of red, loss in gradient of blue. Samples with uniform gains/amplification of FGFR3 and TACC3 lack FGFR3-TACC3 fusions. Samples harboring FGFR3-TACC3 fusions (F3-T3) show microamplifications involving the first FGFR3 exons, which are spliced in the fusion gene.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Glioblastoma multiformes (GBMs) are the most common form of brain tumors in adults accounting for 12-15% of intracranial tumors and 50-60% of primary brain tumors. GBM is among the most lethal forms of human cancer. The history of successful targeted therapy of cancer largely coincides with the inactivation of recurrent and oncogenic gene fusions in hematological malignancies and recently in some types of epithelial cancer. GBM is among the most lethal and incurable forms of human cancer. Targeted therapies against common genetic alterations in GBM have not changed the dismal clinical outcome of the disease, most likely because they have systematically failed to eradicate the truly addicting oncoprotein activities of GBM. Recurrent chromosomal rearrangements resulting in the creation of oncogenic gene fusions have not been found in GBM.

GBM is among the most difficult forms of cancer to treat in humans (1). So far, the therapeutic approaches that have been tested against potentially important oncogenic targets in GBM have met limited success (2-4). Recurrent chromosomal translocations leading to production of oncogenic fusion proteins are viewed as initiating and addicting events in the pathogenesis of human cancer, thus providing the most desirable molecular targets for cancer therapy (5, 6). Recurrent and oncogenic gene fusions have not been found in GBM. Chromosomal rearrangements are hallmarks of hematological malignancies but recently they have also been uncovered in subsets of solid tumors (breast, prostate, lung and colorectal carcinoma) (7, 8). Important and successful targeted therapeutic interventions for patients whose tumors carry these rearrangements have stemmed from the discovery of functional gene fusions, especially when the translocations involve kinase-coding genes (BCR-ABL, EML4-ALK) (9, 10).

A hallmark of GBM is rampant chromosomal instability (CIN), which leads to aneuploidy (11). CIN and aneuploidy are early events in the pathogenesis of cancer (12). It has been suggested that genetic alterations targeting mitotic fidelity might be responsible for missegregation of chromosomes during mitosis, resulting in aneuploidy (13, 14).

Fibroblast growth factor receptors (FGFR) are transmembrane receptors that bind to members of the fibroblast growth factor family of proteins. The structure of the FGFRs consist of an extracellular ligand binding domain comprised of three Ig-like domains, a single transmembrane helix domain, and an intracellular domain with tyrosine kinase activity (Johnson, D. E., Williams, E. T. Structural and functional diversity in the FGF receptor multigene family. (1993) Adv. Cancer Res, 60:1-41).

Transforming acidic coiled-coiled protein (TACC) stabilize microtubules during mitosis by recruiting minispindles (Msps)/XMAP215 proteins to centrosomes. TACCs have been implicated in cancer.

From a medical perspective, the FGFR-TACC fusions provide the first “bona-fide” oncogenically addictive gene fusions in GBM whose identification has long been overdue in this disease.

Beside GBM, which features the highest grade of malignancy among glioma (grade IV), lower grade glioma which include grade II and grade III are a heterogeneous group of tumors in which specific molecular features are associated with divergent clinical outcome. The majority of grade II-III glioma (but only a small subgroup of GBM) harbor mutations in IDH genes (IDH1 or IDH2), which confer a more favorable clinical outcome. Conversely, the absence of IDH mutations is associated with the worst prognosis (5).

Described herein is the identification of FGFR-TACC gene fusions (mostly FGFR3-TACC3, and rarely FGFR1-TACC1) as the first example of highly oncogenic and recurrent gene fusions in GBM. The FGFR-TACC fusions that have been identified so far include the Tyrosine Kinase (TK) domain of FGFR and the coiled-coil domain of TACC proteins, both necessary for the oncogenic function of FGFR-TACC fusions. FGFR3-TACC3 fusions have been identified in pediatric and adult glioma, bladder carcinoma, squamous lung carcinoma and head and neck carcinoma, thus establishing FGFR-TACC fusions as one of the chromosomal translocation most frequently found across multiple types of human cancers (6-15).

Here a screening method for FGFR-TACC fusions is reported that includes a RT-PCR assay designed to identify the known and novel FGFR3-TACC3 fusion transcripts, followed by confirmation of the inframe breakpoint by Sanger sequencing. Using this assay, a dataset of 584 GBM and 211 grade II and grade III gliomas has been analyzed. It was determined that brain tumors harboring FGFR-TACC fusions manifest strong and homogeneous intra-tumor expression of the FGFR3 and TACC3 component invariably included in the fusion protein, when analyzed by immunostaining. A significant clinical benefit following treatment with a specific inhibitor of FGFR-TK is reported in two GBM patients who harbored FGFR3-TACC3 rearrangement.

DNA and AminoAcid Manipulation Methods and Purification Thereof

The practice of aspects of the present invention can employ, unless otherwise indicated, conventional techniques of cell biology, cell culture, molecular biology, transgenic biology, microbiology, recombinant DNA, and immunology, which are within the skill of the art. Such techniques are explained fully in the literature. See, e.g., Molecular Cloning A Laboratory Manual, 3^(rd) Ed., ed. by Sambrook (2001), Fritsch and Maniatis (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press: 1989); DNA Cloning, Volumes I and II (D. N. Glover ed., 1985); Oligonucleotide Synthesis (M. J. Gait ed., 1984); Mullis et al. U.S. Pat. No. 4,683,195; Nucleic Acid Hybridization (B. D. Hames & S. J. Higgins eds. 1984); Transcription and Translation (B. D. Hames & S. J. Higgins eds. 1984); Culture Of Animal Cells (R. I. Freshney, Alan R. Liss, Inc., 1987); Immobilized Cells and Enzymes (IRL Press, 1986); B. Perbal, A Practical Guide To Molecular Cloning (1984); the series, Methods In Enzymology (Academic Press, Inc., N.Y.), specifically, Methods In Enzymology, Vols. 154 and 155 (Wu et al. eds.); Gene Transfer Vectors For Mammalian Cells (J. H. Miller and M. P. Calos eds., 1987, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory); Immunochemical Methods In Cell And Molecular Biology (Caner and Walker, eds., Academic Press, London, 1987); Handbook Of Experimental Immunology, Volumes I-IV (D. M. Weir and C. C. Blackwell, eds., 1986); Manipulating the Mouse Embryo, (Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Press, Cold Spring Harbor, N.Y., 1986). All patents, patent applications and references cited herein are incorporated by reference in their entireties.

One skilled in the art can obtain a protein in several ways, which include, but are not limited to, isolating the protein via biochemical means or expressing a nucleotide sequence encoding the protein of interest by genetic engineering methods.

A protein is encoded by a nucleic acid (including, for example, genomic DNA, complementary DNA (cDNA), synthetic DNA, as well as any form of corresponding RNA). For example, it can be encoded by a recombinant nucleic acid of a gene. The proteins of the invention can be obtained from various sources and can be produced according to various techniques known in the art. For example, a nucleic acid that encodes a protein can be obtained by screening DNA libraries, or by amplification from a natural source. A protein can be a fragment or portion thereof. The nucleic acids encoding a protein can be produced via recombinant DNA technology and such recombinant nucleic acids can be prepared by conventional techniques, including chemical synthesis, genetic engineering, enzymatic techniques, or a combination thereof. For example, a fusion protein of the invention comprises a tyrosine kinase domain of an FGFR protein fused to a polypeptide that constitutively activates the tyrosine kinase domain of the FGFR protein. For example, a fusion protein of the invention comprises a transforming acidic coiled-coil (TACC) domain fused to a polypeptide with a tyrosine kinase domain, wherein the TACC domain constitutively activates the tyrosine kinase domain. An example of a FGFR1-TACC1 polypeptide has the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 150. An example of a FGFR3-TACC3 protein is the polypeptide encoded by the nucleic acid having the nucleotide sequence shown in SEQ ID NOs: 94, 530, 531, 532, 533, 534, 535, 536, 537, or 538. Examples of a FGFR3-TACC3 polypeptide has the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 79, 158, 159, 160, 161, 539, 540, 541, 542, 543, 544, 545, 546, or 547.

The Genbank ID for the FGFR3 gene is 2261. Three isoforms are listed for FGFGR3, e.g., having Genebank Accession Nos. NP_000133 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_000142); NP_001156685 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_001163213); NP_075254 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_022965).

SEQ ID NO: 90 is the FGFR3 Amino Acid Sequence, Transcript Variant 1 (NP_000133; 806 aa). The location of exons are marked by alternating underlining. Amino acids encoded by nucleotides spanning exons are bold italicized.

  1 MGAPACALAL CVAVAIVAGA SSESLGTEQR VVGRAA

VPG PEPGQQEQLV FGSGDAVELS  61 CPPPGGGPMG PTVWVKDGTG LVPSERVLVG PQRLQVLNAS HEDSGAYSCR QRLTQRVLCH 121 FSVRVT

APS SGDDEDGEDE AEDTGVDT

A PYWTRPERMD KKLLAVPAAN TVRFRCPAAG 181 NPTPSISWLK NGREFRGEHR IGGIKLRHQQ WSLVMESVVP SDRGNYTCVV ENKFGSIRQT 241 YTLDVL

RSP HRPILQAGLP ANQTAVLGSD VEFHCKVYSD AQPHIQWLKH VEVNGSKVGP 301 DGTPYVTVLK TAGANTTDKE LEVLSLHNVT FEDAGEYTCL AGNSIGFSHH SAWLVVLP

E 361 EELVEADEAG SVYAGILSYG VGFFLFILVV AAVTLCRLRS PPKKGLGSPT VHKISRFPLK 421 RQVSLESNAS MSSNTPLVRI ARLSSGEGPT LANVSELELP ADPKWELSRA 

LTLGKPLGE 481 GCFGQVVMAE AIGIDKDRAA KPVTVAVKML K

DATDKDLS DLVSEMEMMK MIGKHKNIIN 541 LLGACTQG

P LYVLVEYAAK GNLREFLRAR RPPGLDYSFD TCKPPEEQLT FKDLVSCAYQ 601 VARGMEYLAS QKCIHRDLAA RNVLVTEDNV MKIADFGLAR DVHNLDYYKK TTNGRLPVKW 661 MAPEALFDRV YTHQSD

WSF GVLLWEIFTL GGSPYPGIPV EELFKLLKEG HRMDKPANCT 721 HD

YMIMREC  WHAAPSQRPT   FKQLVEDLDR   VLTVTSTD EY LDLSAPFEQY SPGGQDTPSS 781 SSSGDDSVFA HDLLPPAPPS SGGSRT

SEQ ID NO: 91 is the FGFR3 Nucleotide Sequence, Transcript Variant 1 (NM_000142; 4304 bp).

1 gtcgcgggca gctggcgccg cgcggtcctg ctctgccggt cgcacggacg caccggcggg 61 ccgccggccg gagggacggg gcgggagctg ggcccgcgga cagcgagccg gagcgggagc 121 cgcgcgtagc gagccgggct ccggcgctcg ccagtctccc gagcggcgcc cgcctcccgc 181 cggtgcccgc gccgggccgt ggggggcagc atgcccgcgc gcgctgcctg aggacgccgc 241 ggcccccgcc cccgccatgg gcgcccctgc ctgcgccctc gcgctctgcg tggccgtggc 301 catcgtggcc ggcgcctcct cggagtcctt ggggacggag cagcgcgtcg tggggcgagc 361 ggcagaagtc ccgggcccag agcccggcca gcaggagcag ttggtcttcg gcagcgggga 421 tgctgtggag ctgagctgtc ccccgcccgg gggtggtccc atggggccca ctgtctgggt 481 caaggatggc acagggctgg tgccctcgga gcgtgtcctg gtggggcccc agcggctgca 541 ggtgctgaat gcctcccacg aggactccgg ggcctacagc tgccggcagc ggctcacgca 601 gcgcgtactg tgccacttca gtgtgcgggt gacagacgct ccatcctcgg gagatgacga 661 agacggggag gacgaggctg aggacacagg tgtggacaca ggggcccctt actggacacg 721 gcccgagcgg atggacaaga agctgctggc cgtgccggcc gccaacaccg tccgcttccg 781 ctgcccagcc gctggcaacc ccactccctc catctcctgg ctgaagaacg gcagggagtt 841 ccgcggcgag caccgcattg gaggcatcaa gctgcggcat cagcagtgga gcctggtcat 901 ggaaagcgtg gtgccctcgg accgcggcaa ctacacctgc gtcgtggaga acaagtttgg 961 cagcatccgg cagacgtaca cgctggacgt gctggagcgc tccccgcacc ggcccatcct 1021 gcaggcgggg ctgccggcca accagacggc ggtgctgggc agcgacgtgg agttccactg 1081 caaggtgtac agtgacgcac agccccacat ccagtggctc aagcacgtgg aggtgaatgg 1141 cagcaaggtg ggcccggacg gcacacccta cgttaccgtg ctcaagacgg cgggcgctaa 1201 caccaccgac aaggagctag aggttctctc cttgcacaac gtcacctttg aggacgccgg 1261 ggagtacacc tgcctggcgg gcaattctat tgggttttct catcactctg cgtggctggt 1321 ggtgctgcca gccgaggagg agctggtgga ggctgacgag gcgggcagtg tgtatgcagg 1381 catcctcagc tacggggtgg gcttcttcct gttcatcctg gtggtggcgg ctgtgacgct 1441 ctgccgcctg cgcagccccc ccaagaaagg cctgggctcc cccaccgtgc acaagatctc 1501 ccgcttcccg ctcaagcgac aggtgtccct ggagtccaac gcgtccatga gctccaacac 1561 accactggtg cgcatcgcaa ggctgtcctc aggggagggc cccacgctgg ccaatgtctc 1621 cgagctcgag ctgcctgccg accccaaatg ggagctgtct cgggcccggc tgaccctggg 1681 caagcccctt ggggagggct gcttcggcca ggtggtcatg gcggaggcca tcggcattga 1741 caaggaccgg gccgccaagc ctgtcaccgt agccgtgaag atgctgaaag acgatgccac 1801 tgacaaggac ctgtcggacc tggtgtctga gatggagatg atgaagatga tcgggaaaca 1861 caaaaacatc atcaacctgc tgggcgcctg cacgcagggc gggcccctgt acgtgctggt 1921 ggagtacgcg gccaagggta acctgcggga gtttctgcgg gcgcggcggc ccccgggcct 1981 ggactactcc ttcgacacct gcaagccgcc cgaggagcag ctcaccttca aggacctggt 2041 gtcctgtgcc taccaggtgg cccggggcat ggagtacttg gcctcccaga agtgcatcca 2101 cagggacctg gctgcccgca atgtgctggt gaccgaggac aacgtgatga agatcgcaga 2161 cttcgggctg gcccgggacg tgcacaacct cgactactac aagaagacaa ccaacggccg 2221 gctgcccgtg aagtggatgg cgcctgaggc cttgtttgac cgagtctaca ctcaccagag 2281 tgacgtctgg tcctttgggg tcctgctctg ggagatcttc acgctggggg gctccccgta 2341 ccccggcatc cctgtggagg agctcttcaa gctgctgaag gagggccacc gcatggacaa 2401 gcccgccaac tgcacacacg acctgtacat gatcatgcgg gagtgctggc atgccgcgcc 2461 ctcccagagg cccaccttca agcagctggt ggaggacctg gaccgtgtcc ttaccgtgac 2521 gtccaccgac gagtacctgg acctgtcggc gcctttcgag cagtactccc cgggtggcca 2581 ggacaccccc agctccagct cctcagggga cgactccgtg tttgcccacg acctgctgcc 2641 cccggcccca cccagcagtg ggggctcgcg gacgtgaagg gccactggtc cccaacaatg 2701 tgaggggtcc ctagcagccc accctgctgc tggtgcacag ccactccccg gcatgagact 2761 cagtgcagat ggagagacag ctacacagag ctttggtctg tgtgtgtgtg tgtgcgtgtg 2821 tgtgtgtgtg tgtgcacatc cgcgtgtgcc tgtgtgcgtg cgcatcttgc ctccaggtgc 2881 agaggtaccc tgggtgtccc cgctgctgtg caacggtctc ctgactggtg ctgcagcacc 2941 gaggggcctt tgttctgggg ggacccagtg cagaatgtaa gtgggcccac ccggtgggac 3001 ccccgtgggg cagggagctg ggcccgacat ggctccggcc tctgcctttg caccacggga 3061 catcacaggg tgggcctcgg cccctcccac acccaaagct gagcctgcag ggaagcccca 3121 catgtccagc accttgtgcc tggggtgtta gtggcaccgc ctccccacct ccaggctttc 3181 ccacttccca ccctgcccct cagagactga aattacgggt acctgaagat gggagccttt 3241 accttttatg caaaaggttt attccggaaa ctagtgtaca tttctataaa tagatgctgt 3301 gtatatggta tatatacata tatatatata acatatatgg aagaggaaaa ggctggtaca 3361 acggaggcct gcgaccctgg gggcacagga ggcaggcatg gccctgggcg gggcgtgggg 3421 gggcgtggag ggaggcccca gggggtctca cccatgcaag cagaggacca gggccttttc 3481 tggcaccgca gttttgtttt aaaactggac ctgtatattt gtaaagctat ttatgggccc 3541 ctggcactct tgttcccaca ccccaacact tccagcattt agctggccac atggcggaga 3601 gttttaattt ttaacttatt gacaaccgag aaggtttatc ccgccgatag agggacggcc 3661 aagaatgtac gtccagcctg ccccggagct ggaggatccc ctccaagcct aaaaggttgt 3721 taatagttgg aggtgattcc agtgaagata ttttatttcc tttgtccttt ttcaggagaa 3781 ttagatttct ataggatttt tctttaggag atttattttt tggacttcaa agcaagctgg 3841 tattttcata caaattcttc taattgctgt gtgtcccagg cagggagacg gtttccaggg 3901 aggggccggc cctgtgtgca ggttccgatg ttattagatg ttacaagttt atatatatct 3961 atatatataa tttattgagt ttttacaaga tgtatttgtt gtagacttaa cacttcttac 4021 gcaatgcttc tagagtttta tagcctggac tgctaccttt caaagcttgg agggaagccg 4081 tgaattcagt tggttcgttc tgtactgtta ctgggccctg agtctgggca gctgtccctt 4141 gcttgcctgc agggccatgg ctcagggtgg tctcttcttg gggcccagtg catggtggcc 4201 agaggtgtca cccaaaccgg caggtgcgat tttgttaacc cagcgacgaa ctttccgaaa 4261 aataaagaca cctggttgct aacctggaaa aaaaaaaaaa aaaa

SEQ ID NO: 528 is the FGFR3 wt cDNA Nucleotide Sequence corresponding to the coding sequence of FGFR3 (2421 bp) (NM_000142.4 NP_000133.1). The location of exons are marked by alternating underlining.

ATGGGCGCCCCTGCCTGCGCCCTCGCGCTCTGCGTGGCCGTGGCCATCGT GGCCGGCGCCTCCTCGGAGTCCTTGGGGACGGAGCAGCGCGTCGTGGGGC GAGCGGCAGAAGTCCCGGGCCCAGAGCCCGGCCAGCAGGAGCAGTTGGTC TTCGGCAGCGGGGATGCTGTGGAGCTGAGCTGTCCCCCGCCCGGGGGTGG TCCCATGGGGCCCACTGTCTGGGTCAAGGATGGCACAGGGCTGGTGCCCT CGGAGCGTGTCCTGGTGGGGCCCCAGCGGCTGCAGGTGCTGAATGCCTCC CACGAGGACTCCGGGGCCTACAGCTGCCGGCAGCGGCTCACGCAGCGCGT ACTGTGCCACTTCAGTGTGCGGGTGACAGACGCTCCATCCTCGGGAGATG ACGAAGACGGGGAGGACGAGGCTGAGGACACAGGTGTGGACACAGGGGCC CCTTACTGGACACGGCCCGAGCGGATGGACAAGAAGCTGCTGGCCGTGCC GGCCGCCAACACCGTCCGCTTCCGCTGCCCAGCCGCTGGCAACCCCACTC CCTCCATCTCCTGGCTGAAGAACGGCAGGGAGTTCCGCGGCGAGCACCGC ATTGGAGGCATCAAGCTGCGGCATCAGCAGTGGAGCCTGGTCATGGAAAG CGTGGTGCCCTCGGACCGCGGCAACTACACCTGCGTCGTGGAGAACAAGT TTGGCAGCATCCGGCAGACGTACACGCTGGACGTGCTGGAGCGCTCCCCG CACCGGCCCATCCTGCAGGCGGGGCTGCCGGCCAACCAGACGGCGGTGCT GGGCAGCGACGTGGAGTTCCACTGCAAGGTGTACAGTGACGCACAGCCCC ACATCCAGTGGCTCAAGCACGTGGAGGTGAATGGCAGCAAGGTGGGCCCG GACGGCACACCCTACGTTACCGTGCTCAAGACGGCGGGCGCTAACACCAC CGACAAGGAGCTAGAGGTTCTCTCCTTGCACAACGTCACCTTTGAGGACG CCGGGGAGTACACCTGCCTGGCGGGCAATTCTATTGGGTTTTCTCATCAC TCTGCGTGGCTGGTGGTGCTGCCAGCCGAGGAGGAGCTGGTGGAGGCTGA CGAGGCGGGCAGTGTGTATGCAGGCATCCTCAGCTACGGGGTGGGCTTCT TCCTGTTCATCCTGGTGGTGGCGGCTGTGACGCTCTGCCGCCTGCGCAGC CCCCCCAAGAAAGGCCTGGGCTCCCCCACCGTGCACAAGATCTCCCGCTT CCCGCTCAAGCGACAGGTGTCCCTGGAGTCCAACGCGTCCATGAGCTCCA ACACACCACTGGTGCGCATCGCAAGGCTGTCCTCAGGGGAGGGCCCCACG CTGGCCAATGTCTCCGAGCTCGAGCTGCCTGCCGACCCCAAATGGGAGCT GTCTCGGGCCCGGCTGACCCTGGGCAAGCCCCTTGGGGAGGGCTGCTTCG GCCAGGTGGTCATGGCGGAGGCCATCGGCATTGACAAGGACCGGGCCGCC AAGCCTGTCACCGTAGCCGTGAAGATGCTGAAAGACGATGCCACTGACAA GGACCTGTCGGACCTGGTGTCTGAGATGGAGATGATGAAGATGATCGGGA AACACAAAAACATCATCAACCTGCTGGGCGCCTGCACGCAGGGCGGGCCC CTGTACGTGCTGGTGGAGTACGCGGCCAAGGGTAACCTGCGGGAGTTTCT GCGGGCGCGGCGGCCCCCGGGCCTGGACTACTCCTTCGACACCTGCAAGC CGCCCGAGGAGCAGCTCACCTTCAAGGACCTGGTGTCCTGTGCCTACCAG GTGGCCCGGGGCATGGAGTACTTGGCCTCCCAGAAGTGCATCCACAGGGA CCTGGCTGCCCGCAATGTGCTGGTGACCGAGGACAACGTGATGAAGATCG CAGACTTCGGGCTGGCCCGGGACGTGCACAACCTCGACTACTACAAGAAG ACGACCAACGGCCGGCTGCCCGTGAAGTGGATGGCGCCTGAGGCCTTGTT TGACCGAGTCTACACTCACCAGAGTGACGTCTGGTCCTTTGGGGTCCTGC TCTGGGAGATCTTCACGCTGGGGGGCTCCCCGTACCCCGGCATCCCTGTG GAGGAGCTCTTCAAGCTGCTGAAGGAGGGCCACCGCATGGACAAGCCCGC CAACTGCACACACGACCTGTACATGATCATGCGGGAGTGCTGGCATGCCG CGCCCTCCCAGAGGCCCACCTTCAAGCAGCTGGTGGAGGACCTGGACCGT GTCCTTACCGTGACGTCCACCGACGAGTACCTGGACCTGTCGGCGCCTTT CGAGCAGTACTCCCCGGGTGGCCAGGACACCCCCAGCTCCAGCTCCTCAG GGGACGACTCCGTGTTTGCCCACGACCTGCTGCCCCCGGCCCCACCCAGC AGTGGGGGCTCGCGGACGTGA

The Genbank ID for the TACC3 gene is 10460. SEQ ID NO: 92 is the TACC3 Amino Acid Sequence (NP_006333) (838 aa). The location of exons are marked by alternating underlining. Amino acids encoded by nucleotides spanning exons are shaded in gray. Double underlining indicates the amino acid encoded by bold italicized the nucleotides in SEQ ID NO: 529.

  1 MSLQVLNDKN VSNEKNTENC DFLFSPPEVT GRSSVLRVSQ KENVPPKNLA KAMKVTFQTP  61 LRDPQTHRIL SPSMASKLEA PFTQDDTLGL ENSHPVWTQK E

 QQLIKEVD AKTTHGILQK 121 PVEADTDLLG DASPAFGSGS SSESGPGALA DLDCSSSSQS PGSSENQMVS PGKVSGSPEQ 181 AVEENLSSYS LDRRVTPASE TLEDPCRTES QHKAETPHGA EEECKAETPH GAEEECRHGG 241 VCAPAAVATS PPGAIPKEAC GGAPLQGLPG EALGCPAGVG TPVPADGTQT LTCAHTSAPE 301 STAPTNHLVA GRAMTLSPQE EVAAGQMASS SRSGPVKLEF DVSDGATSKR APPPRRLGER 361 SGLKPPLRKA AVRQQKAPQE VEEDDGRSGA GEDPPMPASR GSYHLDWDKM DDPNFIPFGG 421 DTKSGCSEAQ PPESPETRLG QPAAEQLHAG PATEEPGPCL S

 QLHSASAE DTPVVQLAAE 481 TPTAESKERA LNSASTSLPT SCPGSEPVPT HQQGQPALEL KEESFRDPAE

 LGTGAEVDY 541 LEQFGTSS FK ESALRKQSLY LKFDPLLRDS PGRPVPVATE TS

 MHGANET  PSGRPREAKL 601 VEFDFLGALD IP VPGPPPGV PAPGGPPLST GPIVDLLQYS QKDLDAV VKA   TQEENRELRS 661 RCEELHGKNL EL

 KIMDRFE EVVYQAM

 EV QKQKELSKAE IQKVLKEKDQ LTTDLNSMEK 721 SFSDLFKRFE KQKEVIEGYR KNEESLKKCV EDYLARITQE GQRYQALKAH AEEKLQ

 ANE 781 EIAQVRSKAQ AEALALQASL RKEQMRIQSL EKTVEQKTKE NEELTRICDD LISKMEKI

SEQ ID NO: 93 is the TACC3 Nucleotide Sequence (NM_006342) (2847 bp):

   1 gcgtttgaaa ctccggcgcg ccggcggcca tcaagggcta gaagcgcgac ggcggtagca   61 gctaggcttg gcccccggcg tggagcagac gcggacccct ccttcctggc ggcggcggcg  121 cgggctcaga gcccggcaac gggcgggcgg gcagaatgag tctgcaggtc ttaaacgaca  181 aaaatgtcag caatgaaaaa aatacagaaa attgcgactt cctgttttcg ccaccagaag  241 ttaccggaag atcgtctgtt cttcgtgtgt cacagaaaga aaatgtgcca cccaagaacc  301 tggccaaagc tatgaaggtg acttttcaga cacctctgcg ggatccacag acgcacagga  361 ttctaagtcc tagcatggcc agcaaacttg aggctccttt cactcaggat gacacccttg  421 gactggaaaa ctcacacccg gtctggacac agaaagagaa ccaacagctc atcaaggaag  481 tggatgccaa aactactcat ggaattctac agaaaccagt ggaggctgac accgacctcc  541 tgggggatgc aagcccagcc tttgggagtg gcagctccag cgagtctggc ccaggtgccc  601 tggctgacct ggactgctca agctcttccc agagcccagg aagttctgag aaccaaatgg  661 tgtctccagg aaaagtgtct ggcagccctg agcaagccgt ggaggaaaac cttagttcct  721 attccttaga cagaagagtg acacccgcct ctgagaccct agaagaccct tgcaggacag  781 agtcccagca caaagcggag actccgcacg gagccgagga agaatgcaaa gcggagactc  841 cgcacggagc cgaggaggaa tgccggcacg gtggggtctg tgctcccgca gcagtggcca  901 cttcgcctcc tggtgcaatc cctaaggaag cctgcggagg agcacccctg cagggtctgc  961 ctggcgaagc cctgggctgc cctgcgggtg tgggcacccc cgtgccagca gatggcactc 1021 agacccttac ctgtgcacac acctctgctc ctgagagcac agccccaacc aaccacctgg 1081 tggctggcag ggccatgacc ctgagtcctc aggaagaagt ggctgcaggc caaatggcca 1141 gctcctcgag gagcggacct gtaaaactag aatttgatgt atctgatggc gccaccagca 1201 aaagggcacc cccaccaagg agactgggag agaggtccgg cctcaagcct cccttgagga 1261 aagcagcagt gaggcagcaa aaggccccgc aggaggtgga ggaggacgac ggtaggagcg 1321 gagcaggaga ggaccccccc atgccagctt ctcggggctc ttaccacctc gactgggaca 1381 aaatggatga cccaaacttc atcccgttcg gaggtgacac caagtctggt tgcagtgagg 1441 cccagccccc agaaagccct gagaccaggc tgggccagcc agcggctgaa cagttgcatg 1501 ctgggcctgc cacggaggag ccaggtccct gtctgagcca gcagctgcat tcagcctcag 1561 cggaggacac gcctgtggtg cagttggcag ccgagacccc aacagcagag agcaaggaga 1621 gagccttgaa ctctgccagc acctcgcttc ccacaagctg tccaggcagt gagccagtgc 1681 ccacccatca gcaggggcag cctgccttgg agctgaaaga ggagagcttc agagaccccg 1741 ctgaggttct aggcacgggc gcggaggtgg attacctgga gcagtttgga acttcctcgt 1801 ttaaggagtc ggccttgagg aagcagtcct tatacctcaa gttcgacccc ctcctgaggg 1861 acagtcctgg tagaccagtg cccgtggcca ccgagaccag cagcatgcac ggtgcaaatg 1921 agactccctc aggacgtccg cgggaagcca agcttgtgga gttcgatttc ttgggagcac 1981 tggacattcc tgtgccaggc ccacccccag gtgttcccgc gcctgggggc ccacccctgt 2041 ccaccggacc tatagtggac ctgctccagt acagccagaa ggacctggat gcagtggtaa 2101 aggcgacaca ggaggagaac cgggagctga ggagcaggtg tgaggagctc cacgggaaga 2161 acctggaact ggggaagatc atggacaggt tcgaagaggt tgtgtaccag gccatggagg 2221 aagttcagaa gcagaaggaa ctttccaaag ctgaaatcca gaaagttcta aaagaaaaag 2281 accaacttac cacagatctg aactccatgg agaagtcctt ctccgacctc ttcaagcgtt 2341 ttgagaaaca gaaagaggtg atcgagggct accgcaagaa cgaagagtca ctgaagaagt 2401 gcgtggagga ttacctggca aggatcaccc aggagggcca gaggtaccaa gccctgaagg 2461 cccacgcgga ggagaagctg cagctggcaa acgaggagat cgcccaggtc cggagcaagg 2521 cccaggcgga agcgttggcc ctccaggcca gcctgaggaa ggagcagatg cgcatccagt 2581 cgctggagaa gacagtggag cagaagacta aagagaacga ggagctgacc aggatctgcg 2641 acgacctcat ctccaagatg gagaagatct gacctccacg gagccgctgt ccccgccccc 2701 ctgctcccgt ctgtctgtcc tgtctgattc tcttaggtgt catgttcttt tttctgtctt 2761 gtcttcaact tttttaaaaa ctagattgct ttgaaaacat gactcaataa aagtttcctt 2821 tcaatttaaa cactgaaaaa aaaaaaa

SEQ ID NO: 529 is the TACC3 wt cDNA Nucleotide Sequence corresponding to the coding sequence of TACC3 (2517 bp) (NM_006342.2, NP_006333.1). The location of exons are marked by alternating underlining.

ATGAGTCTGCAGGTCTTAAACGACAAAAATGTCAGCAATGAAAAAAATACAGAAAATTGCGACTTCCTGT TTTCGCCACCAGAAGTTACCGGAAGATCGTCTGTTCTTCGTGTGTCACAGAAAGAAAATGTGCCACCCAA GAACCTGGCCAAAGCTATGAAGGTGACTTTTCAGACACCTCTGCGGGATCCACAGACGCACAGGATTCTA AGTCCTAGCATGGCCAGCAAACTTGAGGCTCCTTTCACTCAGGATGACACCCTTGGACTGGAAAACTCAC ACCCGGTCTGGACACAGAAAGAGAACCAACAGCTCATCAAGGAAGTGGATGCC

 ACTACTCATGGAAT TCTACAGAAACCAGTGGAGGCTGACACCGACCTCCTGGGGGATGCAAGCCCAGCCTTTGGGAGTGGCAGC TCCAGCGAGTCTGGCCCAGGTGCCCTGGCTGACCTGGACTGCTCAAGCTCTTCCCAGAGCCCAGGAAGTT CTGAGAACCAAATGGTGTCTCCAGGAAAAGTGTCTGGCAGCCCTGAGCAAGCCGTGGAGGAAAACCTTAG TTCCTATTCCTTAGACAGAAGAGTGACACCCGCCTCTGAGACCCTAGAAGACCCTTGCAGGACAGAGTCC CAGCACAAAGCGGAGACTCCGCACGGAGCCGAGGAAGAATGCAAAGCGGAGACTCCGCACGGAGCCGAGG AGGAATGCCGGCACGGTGGGGTCTGTGCTCCCGCAGCAGTGGCCACTTCGCCTCCTGGTGCAATCCCTAA GGAAGCCTGCGGAGGAGCACCCCTGCAGGGTCTGCCTGGCGAAGCCCTGGGCTGCCCTGCGGGTGTGGGC ACCCCCGTGCCAGCAGATGGCACTCAGACCCTTACCTGTGCACACACCTCTGCTCCTGAGAGCACAGCCC CAACCAACCACCTGGTGGCTGGCAGGGCCATGACCCTGAGTCCTCAGGAAGAAGTGGCTGCAGGCCAAAT GGCCAGCTCCTCGAGGAGCGGACCTGTAAAACTAGAATTTGATGTATCTGATGGCGCCACCAGCAAAAGG GCACCCCCACCAAGGAGACTGGGAGAGAGGTCCGGCCTCAAGCCTCCCTTGAGGAAAGCAGCAGTGAGGC AGCAAAAGGCCCCGCAGGAGGTGGAGGAGGACGACGGTAGGAGCGGAGCAGGAGAGGACCCCCCCATGCC AGCTTCTCGGGGCTCTTACCACCTCGACTGGGACAAAATGGATGACCCAAACTTCATCCCGTTCGGAGGT GACACCAAGTCTGGTTGCAGTGAGGCCCAGCCCCCAGAAAGCCCTGAGACCAGGCTGGGCCAGCCAGCGG CTGAACAGTTGCATGCTGGGCCTGCCACGGAGGAGCCAGGTCCCTGTCTGAGCCAGCAGCTGCATTCAGC CTCAGCGGAGGACACGCCTGTGGTGCAGTTGGCAGCCGAGACCCCAACAGCAGAGAGCAAGGAGAGAGCC TTGAACTCTGCCAGCACCTCGCTTCCCACAAGCTGTCCAGGCAGTGAGCCAGTGCCCACCCATCAGCAGG GGCAGCCTGCCTTGGAGCTGAAAGAGGAGAGCTTCAGAGACCCCGCTGAGGTTCTAGGCACGGGCGCGGA GGTGGATTACCTGGAGCAGTTTGGAACTTCCTCGTTTAAGGAGTCGGCCTTGAGGAAGCAGTCCTTATAC CTCAAGTTCGACCCCCTCCTGAGGGACAGTCCTGGTAGACCAGTGCCCGTGGCCACCGAGACCAGCAGCA TGCACGGTGCAAATGAGACTCCCTCAGGACGTCCGCGGGAAGCCAAGCTTGTGGAGTTCGATTTCTTGGG AGCACTGGACATTCCTGTGCCAGGCCCACCCCCAGGTGTTCCCGCGCCTGGGGGCCCACCCCTGTCCACC GGACCTATAGTGGACCTGCTCCAGTACAGCCAGAAGGACCTGGATGCAGTGGTAAAGGCGACACAGGAGG AGAACCGGGAGCTGAGGAGCAGGTGTGAGGAGCTCCACGGGAAGAACCTGGAACTGGGGAAGATCATGGA CAGGTTCGAAGAGGTTGTGTACCAGGCCATGGAGGAAGTTCAGAAGCAGAAGGAACTTTCCAAAGCTGAA ATCCAGAAAGTTCTAAAAGAAAAAGACCAACTTACCACAGATCTGAACTCCATGGAGAAGTCCTTCTCCG ACCTCTTCAAGCGTTTTGAGAAACAGAAAGAGGTGATCGAGGGCTACCGCAAGAACGAAGAGTCACTGAA GAAGTGCGTGGAGGATTACCTGGCAAGGATCACCCAGGAGGGCCAGAGGTACCAAGCCCTGAAGGCCCAC GCGGAGGAGAAGCTGCAGCTGGCAAACGAGGAGATCGCCCAGGTCCGGAGCAAGGCCCAGGCGGAAGCGT TGGCCCTCCAGGCCAGCCTGAGGAAGGAGCAGATGCGCATCCAGTCGCTGGAGAAGACAGTGGAGCAGAA GACTAAAGAGAACGAGGAGCTGACCAGGATCTGCGACGACCTCATCTCCAAGATGGAGAAGATCTGA

SEQ ID NO: 94 is the nucleotide sequence of FGFR3-TACC3.

   1 gtcgcgggca gctggcgccg cgcggtcctg ctctgccggt cgcacggacg caccggcggg   61 ccgccggccg gagggacggg gcgggagctg ggcccgcgga cagcgagccg gagcgggagc  121 cgcgcgtagc gagccgggct ccggcgctcg ccagtctccc gagcggcgcc cgcctcccgc  181 cggtgcccgc gccgggccgt ggggggcagc atgcccgcgc gcgctgcctg aggacgccgc  241 ggcccccgcc cccgccatgg gcgcccctgc ctgcgccctc gcgctctgcg tggccgtggc  301 catcgtggcc ggcgcctcct cggagtcctt ggggacggag cagcgcgtcg tggggcgagc  361 ggcagaagtc ccgggcccag agcccggcca gcaggagcag ttggtcttcg gcagcgggga  421 tgctgtggag ctgagctgtc ccccgcccgg gggtggtccc atggggccca ctgtctgggt  481 caaggatggc acagggctgg tgccctcgga gcgtgtcctg gtggggcccc agcggctgca  541 ggtgctgaat gcctcccacg aggactccgg ggcctacagc tgccggcagc ggctcacgca  601 gcgcgtactg tgccacttca gtgtgcgggt gacagacgct ccatcctcgg gagatgacga  661 agacggggag gacgaggctg aggacacagg tgtggacaca ggggcccctt actggacacg  721 gcccgagcgg atggacaaga agctgctggc cgtgccggcc gccaacaccg tccgcttccg  781 ctgcccagcc gctggcaacc ccactccctc catctcctgg ctgaagaacg gcagggagtt  841 ccgcggcgag caccgcattg gaggcatcaa gctgcggcat cagcagtgga gcctggtcat  901 ggaaagcgtg gtgccctcgg accgcggcaa ctacacctgc gtcgtggaga acaagtttgg  961 cagcatccgg cagacgtaca cgctggacgt gctggagcgc tccccgcacc ggcccatcct 1021 gcaggcgggg ctgccggcca accagacggc ggtgctgggc agcgacgtgg agttccactg 1081 caaggtgtac agtgacgcac agccccacat ccagtggctc aagcacgtgg aggtgaatgg 1141 cagcaaggtg ggcccggacg gcacacccta cgttaccgtg ctcaagacgg cgggcgctaa 1201 caccaccgac aaggagctag aggttctctc cttgcacaac gtcacctttg aggacgccgg 1261 ggagtacacc tgcctggcgg gcaattctat tgggttttct catcactctg cgtggctggt 1321 ggtgctgcca gccgaggagg agctggtgga ggctgacgag gcgggcagtg tgtatgcagg 1381 catcctcagc tacggggtgg gcttcttcct gttcatcctg gtggtggcgg ctgtgacgct 1441 ctgccgcctg cgcagccccc ccaagaaagg cctgggctcc cccaccgtgc acaagatctc 1501 ccgcttcccg ctcaagcgac aggtgtccct ggagtccaac gcgtccatga gctccaacac 1561 accactggtg cgcatcgcaa ggctgtcctc aggggagggc cccacgctgg ccaatgtctc 1621 cgagctcgag ctgcctgccg accccaaatg ggagctgtct cgggcccggc tgaccctggg 1681 caagcccctt ggggagggct gcttcggcca ggtggtcatg gcggaggcca tcggcattga 1741 caaggaccgg gccgccaagc ctgtcaccgt agccgtgaag atgctgaaag acgatgccac 1801 tgacaaggac ctgtcggacc tggtgtctga gatggagatg atgaagatga tcgggaaaca 1861 caaaaacatc atcaacctgc tgggcgcctg cacgcagggc gggcccctgt acgtgctggt 1921 ggagtacgcg gccaagggta acctgcggga gtttctgcgg gcgcggcggc ccccgggcct 1981 ggactactcc ttcgacacct gcaagccgcc cgaggagcag ctcaccttca aggacctggt 2041 gtcctgtgcc taccaggtgg cccggggcat ggagtacttg gcctcccaga agtgcatcca 2101 cagggacctg gctgcccgca atgtgctggt gaccgaggac aacgtgatga agatcgcaga 2161 cttcgggctg gcccgggacg tgcacaacct cgactactac aagaagacaa ccaacggccg 2221 gctgcccgtg aagtggatgg cgcctgaggc cttgtttgac cgagtctaca ctcaccagag 2281 tgacgtctgg tcctttgggg tcctgctctg ggagatcttc acgctggggg gctccccgta 2341 ccccggcatc cctgtggagg agctcttcaa gctgctgaag gagggccacc gcatggacaa 2401 gcccgccaac tgcacacacg acctgtacat gatcatgcgg gagtgctggc atgccgcgcc 2461 ctcccagagg cccaccttca agcagctggt ggaggacctg gaccgtgtcc ttaccgtgac 2521 gtccaccgac tttaaggagt cggccttgag gaagcagtcc ttatacctca agttcgaccc 2581 cctcctgagg gacagtcctg gtagaccagt gcccgtggcc accgagacca gcagcatgca 2641 cggtgcaaat gagactccct caggacgtcc gcgggaagcc aagcttgtgg agttcgattt 2701 cttgggagca ctggacattc ctgtgccagg cccaccccca ggtgttcccg cgcctggggg 2761 cccacccctg tccaccggac ctatagtgga cctgctccag tacagccaga aggacctgga 2821 tgcagtggta aaggcgacac aggaggagaa ccgggagctg aggagcaggt gtgaggagct 2881 ccacgggaag aacctggaac tggggaagat catggacagg ttcgaagagg ttgtgtacca 2941 ggccatggag gaagttcaga agcagaagga actttccaaa gctgaaatcc agaaagttct 3001 aaaagaaaaa gaccaactta ccacagatct gaactccatg gagaagtcct tctccgacct 3061 cttcaagcgt tttgagaaac agaaagaggt gatcgagggc taccgcaaga acgaagagtc 3121 actgaagaag tgcgtggagg attacctggc aaggatcacc caggagggcc agaggtacca 3181 agccctgaag gcccacgcgg aggagaagct gcagctggca aacgaggaga tcgcccaggt 3241 ccggagcaag gcccaggcgg aagcgttggc cctccaggcc agcctgagga aggagcagat 3301 gcgcatccag tcgctggaga agacagtgga gcagaagact aaagagaacg aggagctgac 3361 caggatctgc gacgacctca tctccaagat ggagaagatc tgacctccac ggagccgctg 3421 tccccgcccc cctgctcccg tctgtctgtc ctgtctgatt ctcttaggtg tcatgttctt 3481 ttttctgtct tgtcttcaac ttttttaaaa actagattgc tttgaaaaca tgactcaata 3541 aaagtttcct ttcaatttaa acactgaaaa aaaaaaaa

SEQ ID NO: 530 is the nucleotide sequence (cDNA) of FGFR3ex17-TACC3ex11. The sequence corresponding to FGFR3 is underlined. The sequence corresponding to TACC3 is italics:

ATGGGCGCCCCTGCCTGCGCCCTCGCGCTCTGCGTGGCCGTGGCCATCGTGGCCGGCGCCTCCTCGGAGTCCTTGGG GACGGAGCAGCGCGTCGTGGGGCGAGCGGCAGAAGTCCCGGGCCCAGAGCCCGGCCAGCAGGAGCAGTTGGTCTTCG GCAGCGGGGATGCTGTGGAGCTGAGCTGTCCCCCGCCCGGGGGTGGTCCCATGGGGCCCACTGTCTGGGTCAAGGAT GGCACAGGGCTGGTGCCCTCGGAGCGTGTCCTGGTGGGGCCCCAGCGGCTGCAGGTGCTGAATGCCTCCCACGAGGA CTCCGGGGCCTACAGCTGCCGGCAGCGGCTCACGCAGCGCGTACTGTGCCACTTCAGTGTGCGGGTGACAGACGCTC CATCCTCGGGAGATGACGAAGACGGGGAGGACGAGGCTGAGGACACAGGTGTGGACACAGGGGCCCCTTACTGGACA CGGCCCGAGCGGATGGACAAGAAGCTGCTGGCCGTGCCGGCCGCCAACACCGTCCGCTTCCGCTGCCCAGCCGCTGG CAACCCCACTCCCTCCATCTCCTGGCTGAAGAACGGCAGGGAGTTCCGCGGCGAGCACCGCATTGGAGGCATCAAGC TGCGGCATCAGCAGTGGAGCCTGGTCATGGAAAGCGTGGTGCCCTCGGACCGCGGCAACTACACCTGCGTCGTGGAG AACAAGTTTGGCAGCATCCGGCAGACGTACACGCTGGACGTGCTGGAGCGCTCCCCGCACCGGCCCATCCTGCAGGC GGGGCTGCCGGCCAACCAGACGGCGGTGCTGGGCAGCGACGTGGAGTTCCACTGCAAGGTGTACAGTGACGCACAGC CCCACATCCAGTGGCTCAAGCACGTGGAGGTGAATGGCAGCAAGGTGGGCCCGGACGGCACACCCTACGTTACCGTG CTCAAGACGGCGGGCGCTAACACCACCGACAAGGAGCTAGAGGTTCTCTCCTTGCACAACGTCACCTTTGAGGACGC CGGGGAGTACACCTGCCTGGCGGGCAATTCTATTGGGTTTTCTCATCACTCTGCGTGGCTGGTGGTGCTGCCAGCCG AGGAGGAGCTGGTGGAGGCTGACGAGGCGGGCAGTGTGTATGCAGGCATCCTCAGCTACGGGGTGGGCTTCTTCCTG TTCATCCTGGTGGTGGCGGCTGTGACGCTCTGCCGCCTGCGCAGCCCCCCCAAGAAAGGCCTGGGCTCCCCCACCGT GCACAAGATCTCCCGCTTCCCGCTCAAGCGACAGGTGTCCCTGGAGTCCAACGCGTCCATGAGCTCCAACACACCAC TGGTGCGCATCGCAAGGCTGTCCTCAGGGGAGGGCCCCACGCTGGCCAATGTCTCCGAGCTCGAGCTGCCTGCCGAC CCCAAATGGGAGCTGTCTCGGGCCCGGCTGACCCTGGGCAAGCCCCTTGGGGAGGGCTGCTTCGGCCAGGTGGTCAT GGCGGAGGCCATCGGCATTGACAAGGACCGGGCCGCCAAGCCTGTCACCGTAGCCGTGAAGATGCTGAAAGACGATG CCACTGACAAGGACCTGTCGGACCTGGTGTCTGAGATGGAGATGATGAAGATGATCGGGAAACACAAAAACATCATC AACCTGCTGGGCGCCTGCACGCAGGGCGGGCCCCTGTACGTGCTGGTGGAGTACGCGGCCAAGGGTAACCTGCGGGA GTTTCTGCGGGCGCGGCGGCCCCCGGGCCTGGACTACTCCTTCGACACCTGCAAGCCGCCCGAGGAGCAGCTCACCT TCAAGGACCTGGTGTCCTGTGCCTACCAGGTGGCCCGGGGCATGGAGTACTTGGCCTCCCAGAAGTGCATCCACAGG GACCTGGCTGCCCGCAATGTGCTGGTGACCGAGGACAACGTGATGAAGATCGCAGACTTCGGGCTGGCCCGGGACGT GCACAACCTCGACTACTACAAGAAGACGACCAACGGCCGGCTGCCCGTGAAGTGGATGGCGCCTGAGGCCTTGTTTG ACCGAGTCTACACTCACCAGAGTGACGTCTGGTCCTTTGGGGTCCTGCTCTGGGAGATCTTCACGCTGGGGGGCTCC CCGTACCCCGGCATCCCTGTGGAGGAGCTCTTCAAGCTGCTGAAGGAGGGCCACCGCATGGACAAGCCCGCCAACTG CACACACGACCTGTACATGATCATGCGGGAGTGCTGGCATGCCGCGCCCTCCCAGAGGCCCACCTTCAAGCAGCTGG TGGAGGACCTGGACCGTGTCCTTACCGTGACGTCCACCGAC GTAAAGGCGACACAGGAGGAGAACCGGGAGCTGAGG AGCAGGTGTGAGGAGCTCCACGGGAAGAACCTGGAACTGGGGAAGATCATGGACAGGTTCGAAGAGGTTGTGTACCA GGCCATGGAGGAAGTTCAGAAGCAGAAGGAACTTTCCAAAGCTGAAATCCAGAAAGTTCTAAAAGAAAAAGACCAAC TTACCACAGATCTGAACTCCATGGAGAAGTCCTTCTCCGACCTCTTCAAGCGTTTTGAGAAACAGAAAGAGGTGATC GAGGGCTACCGCAAGAACGAAGAGTCACTGAAGAAGTGCGTGGAGGATTACCTGGCAAGGATCACCCAGGAGGGCCA GAGGTACCAAGCCCTGAAGGCCCACGCGGAGGAGAAGCTGCAGCTGGCAAACGAGGAGATCGCCCAGGTCCGGAGCA AGGCCCAGGCGGAAGCGTTGGCCCTCCAGGCCAGCCTGAGGAAGGAGCAGATGCGCATCCAGTCGCTGGAGAAGACA GTGGAGCAGAAGACTAAAGAGAACGAGGAGCTGACCAGGATCTGCGACGACCTCATCTCCAAGATGGAGAAGATCTG A

SEQ ID NO: 531 is the nucleotide sequence (cDNA) of FGFR3ex17-TACC3ex8. The sequence corresponding to FGFR3 is underlined. The sequence corresponding to TACC3 is italicized:

ATGGGCGCCCCTGCCTGCGCCCTCGCGCTCTGCGTGGCCGTGGCCATCGTGGCCGGCGCCTCCTCGGAGTCCTTGGG GACGGAGCAGCGCGTCGTGGGGCGAGCGGCAGAAGTCCCGGGCCCAGAGCCCGGCCAGCAGGAGCAGTTGGTCTTCG GCAGCGGGGATGCTGTGGAGCTGAGCTGTCCCCCGCCCGGGGGTGGTCCCATGGGGCCCACTGTCTGGGTCAAGGAT GGCACAGGGCTGGTGCCCTCGGAGCGTGTCCTGGTGGGGCCCCAGCGGCTGCAGGTGCTGAATGCCTCCCACGAGGA CTCCGGGGCCTACAGCTGCCGGCAGCGGCTCACGCAGCGCGTACTGTGCCACTTCAGTGTGCGGGTGACAGACGCTC CATCCTCGGGAGATGACGAAGACGGGGAGGACGAGGCTGAGGACACAGGTGTGGACACAGGGGCCCCTTACTGGACA CGGCCCGAGCGGATGGACAAGAAGCTGCTGGCCGTGCCGGCCGCCAACACCGTCCGCTTCCGCTGCCCAGCCGCTGG CAACCCCACTCCCTCCATCTCCTGGCTGAAGAACGGCAGGGAGTTCCGCGGCGAGCACCGCATTGGAGGCATCAAGC TGCGGCATCAGCAGTGGAGCCTGGTCATGGAAAGCGTGGTGCCCTCGGACCGCGGCAACTACACCTGCGTCGTGGAG AACAAGTTTGGCAGCATCCGGCAGACGTACACGCTGGACGTGCTGGAGCGCTCCCCGCACCGGCCCATCCTGCAGGC GGGGCTGCCGGCCAACCAGACGGCGGTGCTGGGCAGCGACGTGGAGTTCCACTGCAAGGTGTACAGTGACGCACAGC CCCACATCCAGTGGCTCAAGCACGTGGAGGTGAATGGCAGCAAGGTGGGCCCGGACGGCACACCCTACGTTACCGTG CTCAAGACGGCGGGCGCTAACACCACCGACAAGGAGCTAGAGGTTCTCTCCTTGCACAACGTCACCTTTGAGGACGC CGGGGAGTACACCTGCCTGGCGGGCAATTCTATTGGGTTTTCTCATCACTCTGCGTGGCTGGTGGTGCTGCCAGCCG AGGAGGAGCTGGTGGAGGCTGACGAGGCGGGCAGTGTGTATGCAGGCATCCTCAGCTACGGGGTGGGCTTCTTCCTG TTCATCCTGGTGGTGGCGGCTGTGACGCTCTGCCGCCTGCGCAGCCCCCCCAAGAAAGGCCTGGGCTCCCCCACCGT GCACAAGATCTCCCGCTTCCCGCTCAAGCGACAGGTGTCCCTGGAGTCCAACGCGTCCATGAGCTCCAACACACCAC TGGTGCGCATCGCAAGGCTGTCCTCAGGGGAGGGCCCCACGCTGGCCAATGTCTCCGAGCTCGAGCTGCCTGCCGAC CCCAAATGGGAGCTGTCTCGGGCCCGGCTGACCCTGGGCAAGCCCCTTGGGGAGGGCTGCTTCGGCCAGGTGGTCAT GGCGGAGGCCATCGGCATTGACAAGGACCGGGCCGCCAAGCCTGTCACCGTAGCCGTGAAGATGCTGAAAGACGATG CCACTGACAAGGACCTGTCGGACCTGGTGTCTGAGATGGAGATGATGAAGATGATCGGGAAACACAAAAACATCATC AACCTGCTGGGCGCCTGCACGCAGGGCGGGCCCCTGTACGTGCTGGTGGAGTACGCGGCCAAGGGTAACCTGCGGGA GTTTCTGCGGGCGCGGCGGCCCCCGGGCCTGGACTACTCCTTCGACACCTGCAAGCCGCCCGAGGAGCAGCTCACCT TCAAGGACCTGGTGTCCTGTGCCTACCAGGTGGCCCGGGGCATGGAGTACTTGGCCTCCCAGAAGTGCATCCACAGG GACCTGGCTGCCCGCAATGTGCTGGTGACCGAGGACAACGTGATGAAGATCGCAGACTTCGGGCTGGCCCGGGACGT GCACAACCTCGACTACTACAAGAAGACGACCAACGGCCGGCTGCCCGTGAAGTGGATGGCGCCTGAGGCCTTGTTTG ACCGAGTCTACACTCACCAGAGTGACGTCTGGTCCTTTGGGGTCCTGCTCTGGGAGATCTTCACGCTGGGGGGCTCC CCGTACCCCGGCATCCCTGTGGAGGAGCTCTTCAAGCTGCTGAAGGAGGGCCACCGCATGGACAAGCCCGCCAACTG CACACACGACCTGTACATGATCATGCGGGAGTGCTGGCATGCCGCGCCCTCCCAGAGGCCCACCTTCAAGCAGCTGG TGGAGGACCTGGACCGTGTCCTTACCGTGACGTCCACCGA CTTTAAGGAGTCGGCCTTGAGGAAGCAGTCCTTATAC CTCAAGTTCGACCCCCTCCTGAGGGACAGTCCTGGTAGACCAGTGCCCGTGGCCACCGAGACCAGCAGCATGCACGG TGCAAATGAGACTCCCTCAGGACGTCCGCGGGAAGCCAAGCTTGTGGAGTTCGATTTCTTGGGAGCACTGGACATTC CTGTGCCAGGCCCACCCCCAGGTGTTCCCGCGCCTGGGGGCCCACCCCTGTCCACCGGACCTATAGTGGACCTGCTC CAGTACAGCCAGAAGGACCTGGATGCAGTGGTAAAGGCGACACAGGAGGAGAACCGGGAGCTGAGGAGCAGGTGTGA GGAGCTCCACGGGAAGAACCTGGAACTGGGGAAGATCATGGACAGGTTCGAAGAGGTTGTGTACCAGGCCATGGAGG AAGTTCAGAAGCAGAAGGAACTTTCCAAAGCTGAAATCCAGAAAGTTCTAAAAGAAAAAGACCAACTTACCACAGAT CTGAACTCCATGGAGAAGTCCTTCTCCGACCTCTTCAAGCGTTTTGAGAAACAGAAAGAGGTGATCGAGGGCTACCG CAAGAACGAAGAGTCACTGAAGAAGTGCGTGGAGGATTACCTGGCAAGGATCACCCAGGAGGGCCAGAGGTACCAAG CCCTGAAGGCCCACGCGGAGGAGAAGCTGCAGCTGGCAAACGAGGAGATCGCCCAGGTCCGGAGCAAGGCCCAGGCG GAAGCGTTGGCCCTCCAGGCCAGCCTGAGGAAGGAGCAGATGCGCATCCAGTCGCTGGAGAAGACAGTGGAGCAGAA GACTAAAGAGAACGAGGAGCTGACCAGGATCTGCGACGACCTCATCTCCAAGATGGAGAAGATCTGA

SEQ ID NO: 532 is the nucleotide sequence (cDNA) of FGFR3ex17-TACC3ex10. The sequence corresponding to FGFR3 is underlined. The sequence corresponding to TACC3 is italicized:

ATGGGCGCCCCTGCCTGCGCCCTCGCGCTCTGCGTGGCCGTGGCCATCGTGGCCGGCGCCTCCTCGGAGTCCTTGGG GACGGAGCAGCGCGTCGTGGGGCGAGCGGCAGAAGTCCCGGGCCCAGAGCCCGGCCAGCAGGAGCAGTTGGTCTTCG GCAGCGGGGATGCTGTGGAGCTGAGCTGTCCCCCGCCCGGGGGTGGTCCCATGGGGCCCACTGTCTGGGTCAAGGAT GGCACAGGGCTGGTGCCCTCGGAGCGTGTCCTGGTGGGGCCCCAGCGGCTGCAGGTGCTGAATGCCTCCCACGAGGA CTCCGGGGCCTACAGCTGCCGGCAGCGGCTCACGCAGCGCGTACTGTGCCACTTCAGTGTGCGGGTGACAGACGCTC CATCCTCGGGAGATGACGAAGACGGGGAGGACGAGGCTGAGGACACAGGTGTGGACACAGGGGCCCCTTACTGGACA CGGCCCGAGCGGATGGACAAGAAGCTGCTGGCCGTGCCGGCCGCCAACACCGTCCGCTTCCGCTGCCCAGCCGCTGG CAACCCCACTCCCTCCATCTCCTGGCTGAAGAACGGCAGGGAGTTCCGCGGCGAGCACCGCATTGGAGGCATCAAGC TGCGGCATCAGCAGTGGAGCCTGGTCATGGAAAGCGTGGTGCCCTCGGACCGCGGCAACTACACCTGCGTCGTGGAG AACAAGTTTGGCAGCATCCGGCAGACGTACACGCTGGACGTGCTGGAGCGCTCCCCGCACCGGCCCATCCTGCAGGC GGGGCTGCCGGCCAACCAGACGGCGGTGCTGGGCAGCGACGTGGAGTTCCACTGCAAGGTGTACAGTGACGCACAGC CCCACATCCAGTGGCTCAAGCACGTGGAGGTGAATGGCAGCAAGGTGGGCCCGGACGGCACACCCTACGTTACCGTG CTCAAGACGGCGGGCGCTAACACCACCGACAAGGAGCTAGAGGTTCTCTCCTTGCACAACGTCACCTTTGAGGACGC CGGGGAGTACACCTGCCTGGCGGGCAATTCTATTGGGTTTTCTCATCACTCTGCGTGGCTGGTGGTGCTGCCAGCCG AGGAGGAGCTGGTGGAGGCTGACGAGGCGGGCAGTGTGTATGCAGGCATCCTCAGCTACGGGGTGGGCTTCTTCCTG TTCATCCTGGTGGTGGCGGCTGTGACGCTCTGCCGCCTGCGCAGCCCCCCCAAGAAAGGCCTGGGCTCCCCCACCGT GCACAAGATCTCCCGCTTCCCGCTCAAGCGACAGGTGTCCCTGGAGTCCAACGCGTCCATGAGCTCCAACACACCAC TGGTGCGCATCGCAAGGCTGTCCTCAGGGGAGGGCCCCACGCTGGCCAATGTCTCCGAGCTCGAGCTGCCTGCCGAC CCCAAATGGGAGCTGTCTCGGGCCCGGCTGACCCTGGGCAAGCCCCTTGGGGAGGGCTGCTTCGGCCAGGTGGTCAT GGCGGAGGCCATCGGCATTGACAAGGACCGGGCCGCCAAGCCTGTCACCGTAGCCGTGAAGATGCTGAAAGACGATG CCACTGACAAGGACCTGTCGGACCTGGTGTCTGAGATGGAGATGATGAAGATGATCGGGAAACACAAAAACATCATC AACCTGCTGGGCGCCTGCACGCAGGGCGGGCCCCTGTACGTGCTGGTGGAGTACGCGGCCAAGGGTAACCTGCGGGA GTTTCTGCGGGCGCGGCGGCCCCCGGGCCTGGACTACTCCTTCGACACCTGCAAGCCGCCCGAGGAGCAGCTCACCT TCAAGGACCTGGTGTCCTGTGCCTACCAGGTGGCCCGGGGCATGGAGTACTTGGCCTCCCAGAAGTGCATCCACAGG GACCTGGCTGCCCGCAATGTGCTGGTGACCGAGGACAACGTGATGAAGATCGCAGACTTCGGGCTGGCCCGGGACGT GCACAACCTCGACTACTACAAGAAGACGACCAACGGCCGGCTGCCCGTGAAGTGGATGGCGCCTGAGGCCTTGTTTG ACCGAGTCTACACTCACCAGAGTGACGTCTGGTCCTTTGGGGTCCTGCTCTGGGAGATCTTCACGCTGGGGGGCTCC CCGTACCCCGGCATCCCTGTGGAGGAGCTCTTCAAGCTGCTGAAGGAGGGCCACCGCATGGACAAGCCCGCCAACTG CACACACGACCTGTACATGATCATGCGGGAGTGCTGGCATGCCGCGCCCTCCCAGAGGCCCACCTTCAAGCAGCTGG TGGAGGACCTGGACCGTGTCCTTACCGTGACGTCCACCGAC GTGCCAGGCCCACCCCCAGGTGTTCCCGCGCCTGGG GGCCCACCCCTGTCCACCGGACCTATAGTGGACCTGCTCCAGTACAGCCAGAAGGACCTGGATGCAGTGGTAAAGGC GACACAGGAGGAGAACCGGGAGCTGAGGAGCAGGTGTGAGGAGCTCCACGGGAAGAACCTGGAACTGGGGAAGATCA TGGACAGGTTCGAAGAGGTTGTGTACCAGGCCATGGAGGAAGTTCAGAAGCAGAAGGAACTTTCCAAAGCTGAAATC CAGAAAGTTCTAAAAGAAAAAGACCAACTTACCACAGATCTGAACTCCATGGAGAAGTCCTTCTCCGACCTCTTCAA GCGTTTTGAGAAACAGAAAGAGGTGATCGAGGGCTACCGCAAGAACGAAGAGTCACTGAAGAAGTGCGTGGAGGATT ACCTGGCAAGGATCACCCAGGAGGGCCAGAGGTACCAAGCCCTGAAGGCCCACGCGGAGGAGAAGCTGCAGCTGGCA AACGAGGAGATCGCCCAGGTCCGGAGCAAGGCCCAGGCGGAAGCGTTGGCCCTCCAGGCCAGCCTGAGGAAGGAGCA GATGCGCATCCAGTCGCTGGAGAAGACAGTGGAGCAGAAGACTAAAGAGAACGAGGAGCTGACCAGGATCTGCGACG ACCTCATCTCCAAGATGGAGAAGATCTGA

SEQ ID NO: 533 is the nucleotide sequence (cDNA) of FGFR3ex17-TACC3ex6. The sequence corresponding to FGFR3 is underlined. The sequence corresponding to TACC3 is italicized:

ATGGGCGCCCCTGCCTGCGCCCTCGCGCTCTGCGTGGCCGTGGCCATCGTGGCCGGCGCCTCCTCGGAGTCCTTGGG GACGGAGCAGCGCGTCGTGGGGCGAGCGGCAGAAGTCCCGGGCCCAGAGCCCGGCCAGCAGGAGCAGTTGGTCTTCG GCAGCGGGGATGCTGTGGAGCTGAGCTGTCCCCCGCCCGGGGGTGGTCCCATGGGGCCCACTGTCTGGGTCAAGGAT GGCACAGGGCTGGTGCCCTCGGAGCGTGTCCTGGTGGGGCCCCAGCGGCTGCAGGTGCTGAATGCCTCCCACGAGGA CTCCGGGGCCTACAGCTGCCGGCAGCGGCTCACGCAGCGCGTACTGTGCCACTTCAGTGTGCGGGTGACAGACGCTC CATCCTCGGGAGATGACGAAGACGGGGAGGACGAGGCTGAGGACACAGGTGTGGACACAGGGGCCCCTTACTGGACA CGGCCCGAGCGGATGGACAAGAAGCTGCTGGCCGTGCCGGCCGCCAACACCGTCCGCTTCCGCTGCCCAGCCGCTGG CAACCCCACTCCCTCCATCTCCTGGCTGAAGAACGGCAGGGAGTTCCGCGGCGAGCACCGCATTGGAGGCATCAAGC TGCGGCATCAGCAGTGGAGCCTGGTCATGGAAAGCGTGGTGCCCTCGGACCGCGGCAACTACACCTGCGTCGTGGAG AACAAGTTTGGCAGCATCCGGCAGACGTACACGCTGGACGTGCTGGAGCGCTCCCCGCACCGGCCCATCCTGCAGGC GGGGCTGCCGGCCAACCAGACGGCGGTGCTGGGCAGCGACGTGGAGTTCCACTGCAAGGTGTACAGTGACGCACAGC CCCACATCCAGTGGCTCAAGCACGTGGAGGTGAATGGCAGCAAGGTGGGCCCGGACGGCACACCCTACGTTACCGTG CTCAAGACGGCGGGCGCTAACACCACCGACAAGGAGCTAGAGGTTCTCTCCTTGCACAACGTCACCTTTGAGGACGC CGGGGAGTACACCTGCCTGGCGGGCAATTCTATTGGGTTTTCTCATCACTCTGCGTGGCTGGTGGTGCTGCCAGCCG AGGAGGAGCTGGTGGAGGCTGACGAGGCGGGCAGTGTGTATGCAGGCATCCTCAGCTACGGGGTGGGCTTCTTCCTG TTCATCCTGGTGGTGGCGGCTGTGACGCTCTGCCGCCTGCGCAGCCCCCCCAAGAAAGGCCTGGGCTCCCCCACCGT GCACAAGATCTCCCGCTTCCCGCTCAAGCGACAGGTGTCCCTGGAGTCCAACGCGTCCATGAGCTCCAACACACCAC TGGTGCGCATCGCAAGGCTGTCCTCAGGGGAGGGCCCCACGCTGGCCAATGTCTCCGAGCTCGAGCTGCCTGCCGAC CCCAAATGGGAGCTGTCTCGGGCCCGGCTGACCCTGGGCAAGCCCCTTGGGGAGGGCTGCTTCGGCCAGGTGGTCAT GGCGGAGGCCATCGGCATTGACAAGGACCGGGCCGCCAAGCCTGTCACCGTAGCCGTGAAGATGCTGAAAGACGATG CCACTGACAAGGACCTGTCGGACCTGGTGTCTGAGATGGAGATGATGAAGATGATCGGGAAACACAAAAACATCATC AACCTGCTGGGCGCCTGCACGCAGGGCGGGCCCCTGTACGTGCTGGTGGAGTACGCGGCCAAGGGTAACCTGCGGGA GTTTCTGCGGGCGCGGCGGCCCCCGGGCCTGGACTACTCCTTCGACACCTGCAAGCCGCCCGAGGAGCAGCTCACCT TCAAGGACCTGGTGTCCTGTGCCTACCAGGTGGCCCGGGGCATGGAGTACTTGGCCTCCCAGAAGTGCATCCACAGG GACCTGGCTGCCCGCAATGTGCTGGTGACCGAGGACAACGTGATGAAGATCGCAGACTTCGGGCTGGCCCGGGACGT GCACAACCTCGACTACTACAAGAAGACGACCAACGGCCGGCTGCCCGTGAAGTGGATGGCGCCTGAGGCCTTGTTTG ACCGAGTCTACACTCACCAGAGTGACGTCTGGTCCTTTGGGGTCCTGCTCTGGGAGATCTTCACGCTGGGGGGCTCC CCGTACCCCGGCATCCCTGTGGAGGAGCTCTTCAAGCTGCTGAAGGAGGGCCACCGCATGGACAAGCCCGCCAACTG CACACACGACCTGTACATGATCATGCGGGAGTGCTGGCATGCCGCGCCCTCCCAGAGGCCCACCTTCAAGCAGCTGG TGGAGGACCTGGACCGTGTCCTTACCGTGACGTCCACCGAC GAGAGAGCCTTGAACTCTGCCAGCACCTCGCTTCCC ACAAGCTGTCCAGGCAGTGAGCCAGTGCCCACCCATCAGCAGGGGCAGCCTGCCTTGGAGCTGAAAGAGGAGAGCTT CAGAGACCCCGCTGAGGTTCTAGGCACGGGCGCGGAGGTGGATTACCTGGAGCAGTTTGGAACTTCCTCGTTTAAGG AGTCGGCCTTGAGGAAGCAGTCCTTATACCTCAAGTTCGACCCCCTCCTGAGGGACAGTCCTGGTAGACCAGTGCCC GTGGCCACCGAGACCAGCAGCATGCACGGTGCAAATGAGACTCCCTCAGGACGTCCGCGGGAAGCCAAGCTTGTGGA GTTCGATTTCTTGGGAGCACTGGACATTCCTGTGCCAGGCCCACCCCCAGGTGTTCCCGCGCCTGGGGGCCCACCCC TGTCCACCGGACCTATAGTGGACCTGCTCCAGTACAGCCAGAAGGACCTGGATGCAGTGGTAAAGGCGACACAGGAG GAGAACCGGGAGCTGAGGAGCAGGTGTGAGGAGCTCCACGGGAAGAACCTGGAACTGGGGAAGATCATGGACAGGTT CGAAGAGGTTGTGTACCAGGCCATGGAGGAAGTTCAGAAGCAGAAGGAACTTTCCAAAGCTGAAATCCAGAAAGTTC TAAAAGAAAAAGACCAACTTACCACAGATCTGAACTCCATGGAGAAGTCCTTCTCCGACCTCTTCAAGCGTTTTGAG AAACAGAAAGAGGTGATCGAGGGCTACCGCAAGAACGAAGAGTCACTGAAGAAGTGCGTGGAGGATTACCTGGCAAG GATCACCCAGGAGGGCCAGAGGTACCAAGCCCTGAAGGCCCACGCGGAGGAGAAGCTGCAGCTGGCAAACGAGGAGA TCGCCCAGGTCCGGAGCAAGGCCCAGGCGGAAGCGTTGGCCCTCCAGGCCAGCCTGAGGAAGGAGCAGATGCGCATC CAGTCGCTGGAGAAGACAGTGGAGCAGAAGACTAAAGAGAACGAGGAGCTGACCAGGATCTGCGACGACCTCATCTC CAAGATGGAGAAGATCTGA

SEQ ID NO: 534 is the nucleotide sequence (cDNA) of FGFR3ex18-TACC3ex13. The sequence corresponding to FGFR3 is underlined. The sequence corresponding to TACC3 is italicized:

ATGGGCGCCCCTGCCTGCGCCCTCGCGCTCTGCGTGGCCGTGGCCATCGTGGCCGGCGCCTCCTCGGAGTCCTTGGG GACGGAGCAGCGCGTCGTGGGGCGAGCGGCAGAAGTCCCGGGCCCAGAGCCCGGCCAGCAGGAGCAGTTGGTCTTCG GCAGCGGGGATGCTGTGGAGCTGAGCTGTCCCCCGCCCGGGGGTGGTCCCATGGGGCCCACTGTCTGGGTCAAGGAT GGCACAGGGCTGGTGCCCTCGGAGCGTGTCCTGGTGGGGCCCCAGCGGCTGCAGGTGCTGAATGCCTCCCACGAGGA CTCCGGGGCCTACAGCTGCCGGCAGCGGCTCACGCAGCGCGTACTGTGCCACTTCAGTGTGCGGGTGACAGACGCTC CATCCTCGGGAGATGACGAAGACGGGGAGGACGAGGCTGAGGACACAGGTGTGGACACAGGGGCCCCTTACTGGACA CGGCCCGAGCGGATGGACAAGAAGCTGCTGGCCGTGCCGGCCGCCAACACCGTCCGCTTCCGCTGCCCAGCCGCTGG CAACCCCACTCCCTCCATCTCCTGGCTGAAGAACGGCAGGGAGTTCCGCGGCGAGCACCGCATTGGAGGCATCAAGC TGCGGCATCAGCAGTGGAGCCTGGTCATGGAAAGCGTGGTGCCCTCGGACCGCGGCAACTACACCTGCGTCGTGGAG AACAAGTTTGGCAGCATCCGGCAGACGTACACGCTGGACGTGCTGGAGCGCTCCCCGCACCGGCCCATCCTGCAGGC GGGGCTGCCGGCCAACCAGACGGCGGTGCTGGGCAGCGACGTGGAGTTCCACTGCAAGGTGTACAGTGACGCACAGC CCCACATCCAGTGGCTCAAGCACGTGGAGGTGAATGGCAGCAAGGTGGGCCCGGACGGCACACCCTACGTTACCGTG CTCAAGACGGCGGGCGCTAACACCACCGACAAGGAGCTAGAGGTTCTCTCCTTGCACAACGTCACCTTTGAGGACGC CGGGGAGTACACCTGCCTGGCGGGCAATTCTATTGGGTTTTCTCATCACTCTGCGTGGCTGGTGGTGCTGCCAGCCG AGGAGGAGCTGGTGGAGGCTGACGAGGCGGGCAGTGTGTATGCAGGCATCCTCAGCTACGGGGTGGGCTTCTTCCTG TTCATCCTGGTGGTGGCGGCTGTGACGCTCTGCCGCCTGCGCAGCCCCCCCAAGAAAGGCCTGGGCTCCCCCACCGT GCACAAGATCTCCCGCTTCCCGCTCAAGCGACAGGTGTCCCTGGAGTCCAACGCGTCCATGAGCTCCAACACACCAC TGGTGCGCATCGCAAGGCTGTCCTCAGGGGAGGGCCCCACGCTGGCCAATGTCTCCGAGCTCGAGCTGCCTGCCGAC CCCAAATGGGAGCTGTCTCGGGCCCGGCTGACCCTGGGCAAGCCCCTTGGGGAGGGCTGCTTCGGCCAGGTGGTCAT GGCGGAGGCCATCGGCATTGACAAGGACCGGGCCGCCAAGCCTGTCACCGTAGCCGTGAAGATGCTGAAAGACGATG CCACTGACAAGGACCTGTCGGACCTGGTGTCTGAGATGGAGATGATGAAGATGATCGGGAAACACAAAAACATCATC AACCTGCTGGGCGCCTGCACGCAGGGCGGGCCCCTGTACGTGCTGGTGGAGTACGCGGCCAAGGGTAACCTGCGGGA GTTTCTGCGGGCGCGGCGGCCCCCGGGCCTGGACTACTCCTTCGACACCTGCAAGCCGCCCGAGGAGCAGCTCACCT TCAAGGACCTGGTGTCCTGTGCCTACCAGGTGGCCCGGGGCATGGAGTACTTGGCCTCCCAGAAGTGCATCCACAGG GACCTGGCTGCCCGCAATGTGCTGGTGACCGAGGACAACGTGATGAAGATCGCAGACTTCGGGCTGGCCCGGGACGT GCACAACCTCGACTACTACAAGAAGACGACCAACGGCCGGCTGCCCGTGAAGTGGATGGCGCCTGAGGCCTTGTTTG ACCGAGTCTACACTCACCAGAGTGACGTCTGGTCCTTTGGGGTCCTGCTCTGGGAGATCTTCACGCTGGGGGGCTCC CCGTACCCCGGCATCCCTGTGGAGGAGCTCTTCAAGCTGCTGAAGGAGGGCCACCGCATGGACAAGCCCGCCAACTG CACACACGACCTGTACATGATCATGCGGGAGTGCTGGCATGCCGCGCCCTCCCAGAGGCCCACCTTCAAGCAGCTGG TGGAGGACCTGGACCGTGTCCTTACCGTGACGTCCACCGACGAGTACCTGGACCTGTCGGCGCCTTTCGAGCAGTAC TCCCCGGGTGGCCAGGACACCCCCAG AAGCAGAAGGAACTTTCCAAAGCTGAAATCCAGAAAGTTCTAAAAGAAAAA GACCAACTTACCACAGATCTGAACTCCATGGAGAAGTCCTTCTCCGACCTCTTCAAGCGTTTTGAGAAACAGAAAGA GGTGATCGAGGGCTACCGCAAGAACGAAGAGTCACTGAAGAAGTGCGTGGAGGATTACCTGGCAAGGATCACCCAGG AGGGCCAGAGGTACCAAGCCCTGAAGGCCCACGCGGAGGAGAAGCTGCAGCTGGCAAACGAGGAGATCGCCCAGGTC CGGAGCAAGGCCCAGGCGGAAGCGTTGGCCCTCCAGGCCAGCCTGAGGAAGGAGCAGATGCGCATCCAGTCGCTGGA GAAGACAGTGGAGCAGAAGACTAAAGAGAACGAGGAGCTGACCAGGATCTGCGACGACCTCATCTCCAAGATGGAGA AGATCTGA

SEQ ID NO: 535 is the nucleotide sequence (cDNA) of FGFR3ex18-TACC3ex9_INS66BP. The sequence corresponding to FGFR3 is underlined. The sequence corresponding to TACC3 is italicized. The sequence corresponding the 66 bp intronic insert is double underlined:

ATGGGCGCCCCTGCCTGCGCCCTCGCGCTCTGCGTGGCCGTGGCCATCGTGGCCGGCGCCTCCTCGGAGTCCTTGGG GACGGAGCAGCGCGTCGTGGGGCGAGCGGCAGAAGTCCCGGGCCCAGAGCCCGGCCAGCAGGAGCAGTTGGTCTTCG GCAGCGGGGATGCTGTGGAGCTGAGCTGTCCCCCGCCCGGGGGTGGTCCCATGGGGCCCACTGTCTGGGTCAAGGAT GGCACAGGGCTGGTGCCCTCGGAGCGTGTCCTGGTGGGGCCCCAGCGGCTGCAGGTGCTGAATGCCTCCCACGAGGA CTCCGGGGCCTACAGCTGCCGGCAGCGGCTCACGCAGCGCGTACTGTGCCACTTCAGTGTGCGGGTGACAGACGCTC CATCCTCGGGAGATGACGAAGACGGGGAGGACGAGGCTGAGGACACAGGTGTGGACACAGGGGCCCCTTACTGGACA CGGCCCGAGCGGATGGACAAGAAGCTGCTGGCCGTGCCGGCCGCCAACACCGTCCGCTTCCGCTGCCCAGCCGCTGG CAACCCCACTCCCTCCATCTCCTGGCTGAAGAACGGCAGGGAGTTCCGCGGCGAGCACCGCATTGGAGGCATCAAGC TGCGGCATCAGCAGTGGAGCCTGGTCATGGAAAGCGTGGTGCCCTCGGACCGCGGCAACTACACCTGCGTCGTGGAG AACAAGTTTGGCAGCATCCGGCAGACGTACACGCTGGACGTGCTGGAGCGCTCCCCGCACCGGCCCATCCTGCAGGC GGGGCTGCCGGCCAACCAGACGGCGGTGCTGGGCAGCGACGTGGAGTTCCACTGCAAGGTGTACAGTGACGCACAGC CCCACATCCAGTGGCTCAAGCACGTGGAGGTGAATGGCAGCAAGGTGGGCCCGGACGGCACACCCTACGTTACCGTG CTCAAGACGGCGGGCGCTAACACCACCGACAAGGAGCTAGAGGTTCTCTCCTTGCACAACGTCACCTTTGAGGACGC CGGGGAGTACACCTGCCTGGCGGGCAATTCTATTGGGTTTTCTCATCACTCTGCGTGGCTGGTGGTGCTGCCAGCCG AGGAGGAGCTGGTGGAGGCTGACGAGGCGGGCAGTGTGTATGCAGGCATCCTCAGCTACGGGGTGGGCTTCTTCCTG TTCATCCTGGTGGTGGCGGCTGTGACGCTCTGCCGCCTGCGCAGCCCCCCCAAGAAAGGCCTGGGCTCCCCCACCGT GCACAAGATCTCCCGCTTCCCGCTCAAGCGACAGGTGTCCCTGGAGTCCAACGCGTCCATGAGCTCCAACACACCAC TGGTGCGCATCGCAAGGCTGTCCTCAGGGGAGGGCCCCACGCTGGCCAATGTCTCCGAGCTCGAGCTGCCTGCCGAC CCCAAATGGGAGCTGTCTCGGGCCCGGCTGACCCTGGGCAAGCCCCTTGGGGAGGGCTGCTTCGGCCAGGTGGTCAT GGCGGAGGCCATCGGCATTGACAAGGACCGGGCCGCCAAGCCTGTCACCGTAGCCGTGAAGATGCTGAAAGACGATG CCACTGACAAGGACCTGTCGGACCTGGTGTCTGAGATGGAGATGATGAAGATGATCGGGAAACACAAAAACATCATC AACCTGCTGGGCGCCTGCACGCAGGGCGGGCCCCTGTACGTGCTGGTGGAGTACGCGGCCAAGGGTAACCTGCGGGA GTTTCTGCGGGCGCGGCGGCCCCCGGGCCTGGACTACTCCTTCGACACCTGCAAGCCGCCCGAGGAGCAGCTCACCT TCAAGGACCTGGTGTCCTGTGCCTACCAGGTGGCCCGGGGCATGGAGTACTTGGCCTCCCAGAAGTGCATCCACAGG GACCTGGCTGCCCGCAATGTGCTGGTGACCGAGGACAACGTGATGAAGATCGCAGACTTCGGGCTGGCCCGGGACGT GCACAACCTCGACTACTACAAGAAGACGACCAACGGCCGGCTGCCCGTGAAGTGGATGGCGCCTGAGGCCTTGTTTG ACCGAGTCTACACTCACCAGAGTGACGTCTGGTCCTTTGGGGTCCTGCTCTGGGAGATCTTCACGCTGGGGGGCTCC CCGTACCCCGGCATCCCTGTGGAGGAGCTCTTCAAGCTGCTGAAGGAGGGCCACCGCATGGACAAGCCCGCCAACTG CACACACGACCTGTACATGATCATGCGGGAGTGCTGGCATGCCGCGCCCTCCCAGAGGCCCACCTTCAAGCAGCTGG TGGAGGACCTGGACCGTGTCCTTACCGTGACGTCCACCGACGAGTACCTGGACCTGTCGGCGC AGGAGCAACGGCAG CCTACCCTCCAGCCACAGGGCTGCTGCCTTGCTGGTTACAGCCACCGTTTCT CTAGCATGCACGGTGCAAATGAGAC TCCCTCAGGACGTCCGCGGGAAGCCAAGCTTGTGGAGTTCGATTTCTTGGGAGCACTGGACATTCCTGTGCCAGGCC CACCCCCAGGTGTTCCCGCGCCTGGGGGCCCACCCCTGTCCACCGGACCTATAGTGGACCTGCTCCAGTACAGCCAG AAGGACCTGGATGCAGTGGTAAAGGCGACACAGGAGGAGAACCGGGAGCTGAGGAGCAGGTGTGAGGAGCTCCACGG GAAGAACCTGGAACTGGGGAAGATCATGGACAGGTTCGAAGAGGTTGTGTACCAGGCCATGGAGGAAGTTCAGAAGC AGAAGGAACTTTCCAAAGCTGAAATCCAGAAAGTTCTAAAAGAAAAAGACCAACTTACCACAGATCTGAACTCCATG GAGAAGTCCTTCTCCGACCTCTTCAAGCGTTTTGAGAAACAGAAAGAGGTGATCGAGGGCTACCGCAAGAACGAAGA GTCACTGAAGAAGTGCGTGGAGGATTACCTGGCAAGGATCACCCAGGAGGGCCAGAGGTACCAAGCCCTGAAGGCCC ACGCGGAGGAGAAGCTGCAGCTGGCAAACGAGGAGATCGCCCAGGTCCGGAGCAAGGCCCAGGCGGAAGCGTTGGCC CTCCAGGCCAGCCTGAGGAAGGAGCAGATGCGCATCCAGTCGCTGGAGAAGACAGTGGAGCAGAAGACTAAAGAGAA CGAGGAGCTGACCAGGATCTGCGACGACCTCATCTCCAAGATGGAGAAGATCTGA

SEQ ID NO: 536 is the nucleotide sequence (cDNA) of FGFR3ex18-TACC3ex5. The sequence corresponding to FGFR3 is underlined. The sequence corresponding to TACC3 is italicized:

ATGGGCGCCCCTGCCTGCGCCCTCGCGCTCTGCGTGGCCGTGGCCATCGTGGCCGGCGCCTCCTCGGAGTCCTTGGG GACGGAGCAGCGCGTCGTGGGGCGAGCGGCAGAAGTCCCGGGCCCAGAGCCCGGCCAGCAGGAGCAGTTGGTCTTCG GCAGCGGGGATGCTGTGGAGCTGAGCTGTCCCCCGCCCGGGGGTGGTCCCATGGGGCCCACTGTCTGGGTCAAGGAT GGCACAGGGCTGGTGCCCTCGGAGCGTGTCCTGGTGGGGCCCCAGCGGCTGCAGGTGCTGAATGCCTCCCACGAGGA CTCCGGGGCCTACAGCTGCCGGCAGCGGCTCACGCAGCGCGTACTGTGCCACTTCAGTGTGCGGGTGACAGACGCTC CATCCTCGGGAGATGACGAAGACGGGGAGGACGAGGCTGAGGACACAGGTGTGGACACAGGGGCCCCTTACTGGACA CGGCCCGAGCGGATGGACAAGAAGCTGCTGGCCGTGCCGGCCGCCAACACCGTCCGCTTCCGCTGCCCAGCCGCTGG CAACCCCACTCCCTCCATCTCCTGGCTGAAGAACGGCAGGGAGTTCCGCGGCGAGCACCGCATTGGAGGCATCAAGC TGCGGCATCAGCAGTGGAGCCTGGTCATGGAAAGCGTGGTGCCCTCGGACCGCGGCAACTACACCTGCGTCGTGGAG AACAAGTTTGGCAGCATCCGGCAGACGTACACGCTGGACGTGCTGGAGCGCTCCCCGCACCGGCCCATCCTGCAGGC GGGGCTGCCGGCCAACCAGACGGCGGTGCTGGGCAGCGACGTGGAGTTCCACTGCAAGGTGTACAGTGACGCACAGC CCCACATCCAGTGGCTCAAGCACGTGGAGGTGAATGGCAGCAAGGTGGGCCCGGACGGCACACCCTACGTTACCGTG CTCAAGACGGCGGGCGCTAACACCACCGACAAGGAGCTAGAGGTTCTCTCCTTGCACAACGTCACCTTTGAGGACGC CGGGGAGTACACCTGCCTGGCGGGCAATTCTATTGGGTTTTCTCATCACTCTGCGTGGCTGGTGGTGCTGCCAGCCG AGGAGGAGCTGGTGGAGGCTGACGAGGCGGGCAGTGTGTATGCAGGCATCCTCAGCTACGGGGTGGGCTTCTTCCTG TTCATCCTGGTGGTGGCGGCTGTGACGCTCTGCCGCCTGCGCAGCCCCCCCAAGAAAGGCCTGGGCTCCCCCACCGT GCACAAGATCTCCCGCTTCCCGCTCAAGCGACAGGTGTCCCTGGAGTCCAACGCGTCCATGAGCTCCAACACACCAC TGGTGCGCATCGCAAGGCTGTCCTCAGGGGAGGGCCCCACGCTGGCCAATGTCTCCGAGCTCGAGCTGCCTGCCGAC CCCAAATGGGAGCTGTCTCGGGCCCGGCTGACCCTGGGCAAGCCCCTTGGGGAGGGCTGCTTCGGCCAGGTGGTCAT GGCGGAGGCCATCGGCATTGACAAGGACCGGGCCGCCAAGCCTGTCACCGTAGCCGTGAAGATGCTGAAAGACGATG CCACTGACAAGGACCTGTCGGACCTGGTGTCTGAGATGGAGATGATGAAGATGATCGGGAAACACAAAAACATCATC AACCTGCTGGGCGCCTGCACGCAGGGCGGGCCCCTGTACGTGCTGGTGGAGTACGCGGCCAAGGGTAACCTGCGGGA GTTTCTGCGGGCGCGGCGGCCCCCGGGCCTGGACTACTCCTTCGACACCTGCAAGCCGCCCGAGGAGCAGCTCACCT TCAAGGACCTGGTGTCCTGTGCCTACCAGGTGGCCCGGGGCATGGAGTACTTGGCCTCCCAGAAGTGCATCCACAGG GACCTGGCTGCCCGCAATGTGCTGGTGACCGAGGACAACGTGATGAAGATCGCAGACTTCGGGCTGGCCCGGGACGT GCACAACCTCGACTACTACAAGAAGACGACCAACGGCCGGCTGCCCGTGAAGTGGATGGCGCCTGAGGCCTTGTTTG ACCGAGTCTACACTCACCAGAGTGACGTCTGGTCCTTTGGGGTCCTGCTCTGGGAGATCTTCACGCTGGGGGGCTCC CCGTACCCCGGCATCCCTGTGGAGGAGCTCTTCAAGCTGCTGAAGGAGGGCCACCGCATGGACAAGCCCGCCAACTG CACACACGACCTGTACATGATCATGCGGGAGTGCTGGCATGCCGCGCCCTCCCAGAGGCCCACCTTCAAGCAGCTGG TGGAGGACCTGGACCGTGTCCTTACCGTGACGTCCACCGACGAGTACCTGGACCTGTCGGCG CCTGTGGTGCAGTTG GCAGCCGAGACCCCAACAGCAGAGAGCAAGGAGAGAGCCTTGAACTCTGCCAGCACCTCGCTTCCCACAAGCTGTCC AGGCAGTGAGCCAGTGCCCACCCATCAGCAGGGGCAGCCTGCCTTGGAGCTGAAAGAGGAGAGCTTCAGAGACCCCG CTGAGGTTCTAGGCACGGGCGCGGAGGTGGATTACCTGGAGCAGTTTGGAACTTCCTCGTTTAAGGAGTCGGCCTTG AGGAAGCAGTCCTTATACCTCAAGTTCGACCCCCTCCTGAGGGACAGTCCTGGTAGACCAGTGCCCGTGGCCACCGA GACCAGCAGCATGCACGGTGCAAATGAGACTCCCTCAGGACGTCCGCGGGAAGCCAAGCTTGTGGAGTTCGATTTCT TGGGAGCACTGGACATTCCTGTGCCAGGCCCACCCCCAGGTGTTCCCGCGCCTGGGGGCCCACCCCTGTCCACCGGA CCTATAGTGGACCTGCTCCAGTACAGCCAGAAGGACCTGGATGCAGTGGTAAAGGCGACACAGGAGGAGAACCGGGA GCTGAGGAGCAGGTGTGAGGAGCTCCACGGGAAGAACCTGGAACTGGGGAAGATCATGGACAGGTTCGAAGAGGTTG TGTACCAGGCCATGGAGGAAGTTCAGAAGCAGAAGGAACTTTCCAAAGCTGAAATCCAGAAAGTTCTAAAAGAAAAA GACCAACTTACCACAGATCTGAACTCCATGGAGAAGTCCTTCTCCGACCTCTTCAAGCGTTTTGAGAAACAGAAAGA GGTGATCGAGGGCTACCGCAAGAACGAAGAGTCACTGAAGAAGTGCGTGGAGGATTACCTGGCAAGGATCACCCAGG AGGGCCAGAGGTACCAAGCCCTGAAGGCCCACGCGGAGGAGAAGCTGCAGCTGGCAAACGAGGAGATCGCCCAGGTC CGGAGCAAGGCCCAGGCGGAAGCGTTGGCCCTCCAGGCCAGCCTGAGGAAGGAGCAGATGCGCATCCAGTCGCTGGA GAAGACAGTGGAGCAGAAGACTAAAGAGAACGAGGAGCTGACCAGGATCTGCGACGACCTCATCTCCAAGATGGAGA AGATCTGA

SEQ ID NO: 537 is the nucleotide sequence (cDNA) of FGFR3ex18-TACC3ex5_INS33 bp. The sequence corresponding to FGFR3 is underlined. The sequence corresponding to TACC3 is italicized. The sequence corresponding the 33 bp intronic insert is double underlined:

ATGGGCGCCCCTGCCTGCGCCCTCGCGCTCTGCGTGGCCGTGGCCATCGTGGCCGGCGCCTCCTCGGAGTCCTTGGG GACGGAGCAGCGCGTCGTGGGGCGAGCGGCAGAAGTCCCGGGCCCAGAGCCCGGCCAGCAGGAGCAGTTGGTCTTCG GCAGCGGGGATGCTGTGGAGCTGAGCTGTCCCCCGCCCGGGGGTGGTCCCATGGGGCCCACTGTCTGGGTCAAGGAT GGCACAGGGCTGGTGCCCTCGGAGCGTGTCCTGGTGGGGCCCCAGCGGCTGCAGGTGCTGAATGCCTCCCACGAGGA CTCCGGGGCCTACAGCTGCCGGCAGCGGCTCACGCAGCGCGTACTGTGCCACTTCAGTGTGCGGGTGACAGACGCTC CATCCTCGGGAGATGACGAAGACGGGGAGGACGAGGCTGAGGACACAGGTGTGGACACAGGGGCCCCTTACTGGACA CGGCCCGAGCGGATGGACAAGAAGCTGCTGGCCGTGCCGGCCGCCAACACCGTCCGCTTCCGCTGCCCAGCCGCTGG CAACCCCACTCCCTCCATCTCCTGGCTGAAGAACGGCAGGGAGTTCCGCGGCGAGCACCGCATTGGAGGCATCAAGC TGCGGCATCAGCAGTGGAGCCTGGTCATGGAAAGCGTGGTGCCCTCGGACCGCGGCAACTACACCTGCGTCGTGGAG AACAAGTTTGGCAGCATCCGGCAGACGTACACGCTGGACGTGCTGGAGCGCTCCCCGCACCGGCCCATCCTGCAGGC GGGGCTGCCGGCCAACCAGACGGCGGTGCTGGGCAGCGACGTGGAGTTCCACTGCAAGGTGTACAGTGACGCACAGC CCCACATCCAGTGGCTCAAGCACGTGGAGGTGAATGGCAGCAAGGTGGGCCCGGACGGCACACCCTACGTTACCGTG CTCAAGACGGCGGGCGCTAACACCACCGACAAGGAGCTAGAGGTTCTCTCCTTGCACAACGTCACCTTTGAGGACGC CGGGGAGTACACCTGCCTGGCGGGCAATTCTATTGGGTTTTCTCATCACTCTGCGTGGCTGGTGGTGCTGCCAGCCG AGGAGGAGCTGGTGGAGGCTGACGAGGCGGGCAGTGTGTATGCAGGCATCCTCAGCTACGGGGTGGGCTTCTTCCTG TTCATCCTGGTGGTGGCGGCTGTGACGCTCTGCCGCCTGCGCAGCCCCCCCAAGAAAGGCCTGGGCTCCCCCACCGT GCACAAGATCTCCCGCTTCCCGCTCAAGCGACAGGTGTCCCTGGAGTCCAACGCGTCCATGAGCTCCAACACACCAC TGGTGCGCATCGCAAGGCTGTCCTCAGGGGAGGGCCCCACGCTGGCCAATGTCTCCGAGCTCGAGCTGCCTGCCGAC CCCAAATGGGAGCTGTCTCGGGCCCGGCTGACCCTGGGCAAGCCCCTTGGGGAGGGCTGCTTCGGCCAGGTGGTCAT GGCGGAGGCCATCGGCATTGACAAGGACCGGGCCGCCAAGCCTGTCACCGTAGCCGTGAAGATGCTGAAAGACGATG CCACTGACAAGGACCTGTCGGACCTGGTGTCTGAGATGGAGATGATGAAGATGATCGGGAAACACAAAAACATCATC AACCTGCTGGGCGCCTGCACGCAGGGCGGGCCCCTGTACGTGCTGGTGGAGTACGCGGCCAAGGGTAACCTGCGGGA GTTTCTGCGGGCGCGGCGGCCCCCGGGCCTGGACTACTCCTTCGACACCTGCAAGCCGCCCGAGGAGCAGCTCACCT TCAAGGACCTGGTGTCCTGTGCCTACCAGGTGGCCCGGGGCATGGAGTACTTGGCCTCCCAGAAGTGCATCCACAGG GACCTGGCTGCCCGCAATGTGCTGGTGACCGAGGACAACGTGATGAAGATCGCAGACTTCGGGCTGGCCCGGGACGT GCACAACCTCGACTACTACAAGAAGACGACCAACGGCCGGCTGCCCGTGAAGTGGATGGCGCCTGAGGCCTTGTTTG ACCGAGTCTACACTCACCAGAGTGACGTCTGGTCCTTTGGGGTCCTGCTCTGGGAGATCTTCACGCTGGGGGGCTCC CCGTACCCCGGCATCCCTGTGGAGGAGCTCTTCAAGCTGCTGAAGGAGGGCCACCGCATGGACAAGCCCGCCAACTG CACACACGACCTGTACATGATCATGCGGGAGTGCTGGCATGCCGCGCCCTCCCAGAGGCCCACCTTCAAGCAGCTGG TGGAGGACCTGGACCGTGTCCTTACCGTGACGTCCACCGACGAGTACCTGGACCTGTCGGCGCCTTTCGAGCAGTAC TCCCCGGGTGGCCAGGACACCCCCAGCTCCAGCTCCTCAGGGGAC GTGCGTGAGCCACCGCACCCGGCGTTTCCTAG G TCAGCGGAGGACACGCCTGTGGTGCAGTTGGCAGCCGAGACCCCAACAGCAGAGAGCAAGGAGAGAGCCTTGAACT CTGCCAGCACCTCGCTTCCCACAAGCTGTCCAGGCAGTGAGCCAGTGCCCACCCATCAGCAGGGGCAGCCTGCCTTG GAGCTGAAAGAGGAGAGCTTCAGAGACCCCGCTGAGGTTCTAGGCACGGGCGCGGAGGTGGATTACCTGGAGCAGTT TGGAACTTCCTCGTTTAAGGAGTCGGCCTTGAGGAAGCAGTCCTTATACCTCAAGTTCGACCCCCTCCTGAGGGACA GTCCTGGTAGACCAGTGCCCGTGGCCACCGAGACCAGCAGCATGCACGGTGCAAATGAGACTCCCTCAGGACGTCCG CGGGAAGCCAAGCTTGTGGAGTTCGATTTCTTGGGAGCACTGGACATTCCTGTGCCAGGCCCACCCCCAGGTGTTCC CGCGCCTGGGGGCCCACCCCTGTCCACCGGACCTATAGTGGACCTGCTCCAGTACAGCCAGAAGGACCTGGATGCAG TGGTAAAGGCGACACAGGAGGAGAACCGGGAGCTGAGGAGCAGGTGTGAGGAGCTCCACGGGAAGAACCTGGAACTG GGGAAGATCATGGACAGGTTCGAAGAGGTTGTGTACCAGGCCATGGAGGAAGTTCAGAAGCAGAAGGAACTTTCCAA AGCTGAAATCCAGAAAGTTCTAAAAGAAAAAGACCAACTTACCACAGATCTGAACTCCATGGAGAAGTCCTTCTCCG ACCTCTTCAAGCGTTTTGAGAAACAGAAAGAGGTGATCGAGGGCTACCGCAAGAACGAAGAGTCACTGAAGAAGTGC GTGGAGGATTACCTGGCAAGGATCACCCAGGAGGGCCAGAGGTACCAAGCCCTGAAGGCCCACGCGGAGGAGAAGCT GCAGCTGGCAAACGAGGAGATCGCCCAGGTCCGGAGCAAGGCCCAGGCGGAAGCGTTGGCCCTCCAGGCCAGCCTGA GGAAGGAGCAGATGCGCATCCAGTCGCTGGAGAAGACAGTGGAGCAGAAGACTAAAGAGAACGAGGAGCTGACCAGG ATCTGCGACGACCTCATCTCCAAGATGGAGAAGATCTGA

SEQ ID NO: 538 is the nucleotide sequence (cDNA) of FGFR3ex18-TACC3ex4. The sequence corresponding to FGFR3 is underlined. The sequence corresponding to TACC3 is italicized.

ATGGGCGCCCCTGCCTGCGCCCTCGCGCTCTGCGTGGCCGTGGCCATCGTGGCCGGCGCCTCCTCGGAGTCCTTGGG GACGGAGCAGCGCGTCGTGGGGCGAGCGGCAGAAGTCCCGGGCCCAGAGCCCGGCCAGCAGGAGCAGTTGGTCTTCG GCAGCGGGGATGCTGTGGAGCTGAGCTGTCCCCCGCCCGGGGGTGGTCCCATGGGGCCCACTGTCTGGGTCAAGGAT GGCACAGGGCTGGTGCCCTCGGAGCGTGTCCTGGTGGGGCCCCAGCGGCTGCAGGTGCTGAATGCCTCCCACGAGGA CTCCGGGGCCTACAGCTGCCGGCAGCGGCTCACGCAGCGCGTACTGTGCCACTTCAGTGTGCGGGTGACAGACGCTC CATCCTCGGGAGATGACGAAGACGGGGAGGACGAGGCTGAGGACACAGGTGTGGACACAGGGGCCCCTTACTGGACA CGGCCCGAGCGGATGGACAAGAAGCTGCTGGCCGTGCCGGCCGCCAACACCGTCCGCTTCCGCTGCCCAGCCGCTGG CAACCCCACTCCCTCCATCTCCTGGCTGAAGAACGGCAGGGAGTTCCGCGGCGAGCACCGCATTGGAGGCATCAAGC TGCGGCATCAGCAGTGGAGCCTGGTCATGGAAAGCGTGGTGCCCTCGGACCGCGGCAACTACACCTGCGTCGTGGAG AACAAGTTTGGCAGCATCCGGCAGACGTACACGCTGGACGTGCTGGAGCGCTCCCCGCACCGGCCCATCCTGCAGGC GGGGCTGCCGGCCAACCAGACGGCGGTGCTGGGCAGCGACGTGGAGTTCCACTGCAAGGTGTACAGTGACGCACAGC CCCACATCCAGTGGCTCAAGCACGTGGAGGTGAATGGCAGCAAGGTGGGCCCGGACGGCACACCCTACGTTACCGTG CTCAAGACGGCGGGCGCTAACACCACCGACAAGGAGCTAGAGGTTCTCTCCTTGCACAACGTCACCTTTGAGGACGC CGGGGAGTACACCTGCCTGGCGGGCAATTCTATTGGGTTTTCTCATCACTCTGCGTGGCTGGTGGTGCTGCCAGCCG AGGAGGAGCTGGTGGAGGCTGACGAGGCGGGCAGTGTGTATGCAGGCATCCTCAGCTACGGGGTGGGCTTCTTCCTG TTCATCCTGGTGGTGGCGGCTGTGACGCTCTGCCGCCTGCGCAGCCCCCCCAAGAAAGGCCTGGGCTCCCCCACCGT GCACAAGATCTCCCGCTTCCCGCTCAAGCGACAGGTGTCCCTGGAGTCCAACGCGTCCATGAGCTCCAACACACCAC TGGTGCGCATCGCAAGGCTGTCCTCAGGGGAGGGCCCCACGCTGGCCAATGTCTCCGAGCTCGAGCTGCCTGCCGAC CCCAAATGGGAGCTGTCTCGGGCCCGGCTGACCCTGGGCAAGCCCCTTGGGGAGGGCTGCTTCGGCCAGGTGGTCAT GGCGGAGGCCATCGGCATTGACAAGGACCGGGCCGCCAAGCCTGTCACCGTAGCCGTGAAGATGCTGAAAGACGATG CCACTGACAAGGACCTGTCGGACCTGGTGTCTGAGATGGAGATGATGAAGATGATCGGGAAACACAAAAACATCATC AACCTGCTGGGCGCCTGCACGCAGGGCGGGCCCCTGTACGTGCTGGTGGAGTACGCGGCCAAGGGTAACCTGCGGGA GTTTCTGCGGGCGCGGCGGCCCCCGGGCCTGGACTACTCCTTCGACACCTGCAAGCCGCCCGAGGAGCAGCTCACCT TCAAGGACCTGGTGTCCTGTGCCTACCAGGTGGCCCGGGGCATGGAGTACTTGGCCTCCCAGAAGTGCATCCACAGG GACCTGGCTGCCCGCAATGTGCTGGTGACCGAGGACAACGTGATGAAGATCGCAGACTTCGGGCTGGCCCGGGACGT GCACAACCTCGACTACTACAAGAAGACGACCAACGGCCGGCTGCCCGTGAAGTGGATGGCGCCTGAGGCCTTGTTTG ACCGAGTCTACACTCACCAGAGTGACGTCTGGTCCTTTGGGGTCCTGCTCTGGGAGATCTTCACGCTGGGGGGCTCC CCGTACCCCGGCATCCCTGTGGAGGAGCTCTTCAAGCTGCTGAAGGAGGGCCACCGCATGGACAAGCCCGCCAACTG CACACACGACCTGTACATGATCATGCGGGAGTGCTGGCATGCCGCGCCCTCCCAGAGGCCCACCTTCAAGCAGCTGG TGGAGGACCTGGACCGTGTCCTTACCGTGACGTCCACCGACGAGTACCTGGACCTGTCGGCGCCTTTCGAGCAGTAC TCCCCGGGTGGCCAGGACACC CCAGAAAGCCCTGAGACCAGGCTGGGCCAGCCAGCGGCTGAACAGTTGCATGCTGG GCCTGCCACGGAGGAGCCAGGTCCCTGTCTGAGCCAGCAGCTGCATTCAGCCTCAGCGGAGGACACGCCTGTGGTGC AGTTGGCAGCCGAGACCCCAACAGCAGAGAGCAAGGAGAGAGCCTTGAACTCTGCCAGCACCTCGCTTCCCACAAGC TGTCCAGGCAGTGAGCCAGTGCCCACCCATCAGCAGGGGCAGCCTGCCTTGGAGCTGAAAGAGGAGAGCTTCAGAGA CCCCGCTGAGGTTCTAGGCACGGGCGCGGAGGTGGATTACCTGGAGCAGTTTGGAACTTCCTCGTTTAAGGAGTCGG CCTTGAGGAAGCAGTCCTTATACCTCAAGTTCGACCCCCTCCTGAGGGACAGTCCTGGTAGACCAGTGCCCGTGGCC ACCGAGACCAGCAGCATGCACGGTGCAAATGAGACTCCCTCAGGACGTCCGCGGGAAGCCAAGCTTGTGGAGTTCGA TTTCTTGGGAGCACTGGACATTCCTGTGCCAGGCCCACCCCCAGGTGTTCCCGCGCCTGGGGGCCCACCCCTGTCCA CCGGACCTATAGTGGACCTGCTCCAGTACAGCCAGAAGGACCTGGATGCAGTGGTAAAGGCGACACAGGAGGAGAAC CGGGAGCTGAGGAGCAGGTGTGAGGAGCTCCACGGGAAGAACCTGGAACTGGGGAAGATCATGGACAGGTTCGAAGA GGTTGTGTACCAGGCCATGGAGGAAGTTCAGAAGCAGAAGGAACTTTCCAAAGCTGAAATCCAGAAAGTTCTAAAAG AAAAAGACCAACTTACCACAGATCTGAACTCCATGGAGAAGTCCTTCTCCGACCTCTTCAAGCGTTTTGAGAAACAG AAAGAGGTGATCGAGGGCTACCGCAAGAACGAAGAGTCACTGAAGAAGTGCGTGGAGGATTACCTGGCAAGGATCAC CCAGGAGGGCCAGAGGTACCAAGCCCTGAAGGCCCACGCGGAGGAGAAGCTGCAGCTGGCAAACGAGGAGATCGCCC AGGTCCGGAGCAAGGCCCAGGCGGAAGCGTTGGCCCTCCAGGCCAGCCTGAGGAAGGAGCAGATGCGCATCCAGTCG CTGGAGAAGACAGTGGAGCAGAAGACTAAAGAGAACGAGGAGCTGACCAGGATCTGCGACGACCTCATCTCCAAGAT GGAGAAGATCTGA

The Genbank ID for the FGFR1 gene is 2260. Eight isoforms are listed for FGFR1, e.g., having Genebank Accession Nos. NP_001167534 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_001174063); NP_001167535 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_001174064); NP_001167536 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_001174065); NP_001167537 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_001174066); NP_001167538 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_001174067); NP_056934 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_015850); NP_075593 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_023105); NP_075594 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_023106); NP_075598 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_023110).

SEQ ID NO: 146 is the FGFR1 Amino Acid Sequence for isoform 10, having Genebank Accession No. NP_001167534 (820 aa):

  1 MWSWKCLLFW AVLVTATLCT ARPSPTLPEQ AQPWGAPVEV ESFLVHPGDL LQLRCRLRDD  61 VQSINWLRDG VQLAESNRTR ITGEEVEVQD SVPADSGLYA CVTSSPSGSD TTYFSVNVSD 121 ALPSSEDDDD DDDSSSEEKE TDNTKPNRMP VAPYWTSPEK MEKKLHAVPA AKTVKFKCPS 181 SGTPNPTLRW LKNGKEFKPD HRIGGYKVRY ATWSIIMDSV VPSDKGNYTC IVENEYGSIN 241 HTYQLDVVER SPHRPILQAG LPANKTVALG SNVEFMCKVY SDPQPHIQWL KHIEVNGSKI 301 GPDNLPYVQI LKTAGVNTTD KEMEVLHLRN VSFEDAGEYT CLAGNSIGLS HHSAWLTVLE 361 ALEERPAVMT SPLYLEIIIY CTGAFLISCM VGSVIVYKMK SGTKKSDFHS QMAVHKLAKS 421 IPLRRQVSAD SSASMNSGVL LVRPSRLSSS GTPMLAGVSE YELPEDPRWE LPRDRLVLGK 481 PLGEGCFGQV VLAEAIGLDK DKPNRVTKVA VKMLKSDATE KDLSDLISEM EMMKMIGKHK 541 NIINLLGACT QDGPLYVIVE YASKGNLREY LQARRPPGLE YCYNPSHNPE EQLSSKDLVS 601 CAYQVARGME YLASKKCIHR DLAARNVLVT EDNVMKIADF GLARDIHHID YYKKTTNGRL 661 PVKWMAPEAL FDRIYTHQSD VWSFGVLLWE IFTLGGSPYP GVPVEELFKL LKEGHRMDKP 721 SNCTNELYMM MRDCWHAVPS QRPTFKQLVE DLDRIVALTS NQEYLDLSMP LDQYSPSFPD 781 TRSSTCSSGE DSVFSHEPLP EEPCLPRHPA QLANGGLKRR

SEQ ID NO: 147 is the FGFR1 Nucleotide Sequence for isoform 10, having Genebank Accession No. NM_001174063 (5895 bp):

   1 agatgcaggg gcgcaaacgc caaaggagac caggctgtag gaagagaagg gcagagcgcc   61 ggacagctcg gcccgctccc cgtcctttgg ggccgcggct ggggaactac aaggcccagc  121 aggcagctgc agggggcgga ggcggaggag ggaccagcgc gggtgggagt gagagagcga  181 gccctcgcgc cccgccggcg catagcgctc ggagcgctct tgcggccaca ggcgcggcgt  241 cctcggcggc gggcggcagc tagcgggagc cgggacgccg gtgcagccgc agcgcgcgga  301 ggaacccggg tgtgccggga gctgggcggc cacgtccgga cgggaccgag acccctcgta  361 gcgcattgcg gcgacctcgc cttccccggc cgcgagcgcg ccgctgcttg aaaagccgcg  421 gaacccaagg acttttctcc ggtccgagct cggggcgccc cgcagggcgc acggtacccg  481 tgctgcagtc gggcacgccg cggcgccggg gcctccgcag ggcgatggag cccggtctgc  541 aaggaaagtg aggcgccgcc gctgcgttct ggaggagggg ggcacaaggt ctggagaccc  601 cgggtggcgg acgggagccc tccccccgcc ccgcctccgg ggcaccagct ccggctccat  661 tgttcccgcc cgggctggag gcgccgagca ccgagcgccg ccgggagtcg agcgccggcc  721 gcggagctct tgcgaccccg ccaggacccg aacagagccc gggggcggcg ggccggagcc  781 ggggacgcgg gcacacgccc gctcgcacaa gccacggcgg actctcccga ggcggaacct  841 ccacgccgag cgagggtcag tttgaaaagg aggatcgagc tcactgtgga gtatccatgg  901 agatgtggag ccttgtcacc aacctctaac tgcagaactg gg atg tggag ctggaagtgc  961 ctcctcttct gggctgtgct ggtcacagcc acactctgca ccgctaggcc gtccccgacc 1021 ttgcctgaac aagcccagcc ctggggagcc cctgtggaag tggagtcctt cctggtccac 1081 cccggtgacc tgctgcagct tcgctgtcgg ctgcgggacg atgtgcagag catcaactgg 1141 ctgcgggacg gggtgcagct ggcggaaagc aaccgcaccc gcatcacagg ggaggaggtg 1201 gaggtgcagg actccgtgcc cgcagactcc ggcctctatg cttgcgtaac cagcagcccc 1261 tcgggcagtg acaccaccta cttctccgtc aatgtttcag atgctctccc ctcctcggag 1321 gatgatgatg atgatgatga ctcctcttca gaggagaaag aaacagataa caccaaacca 1381 aaccgtatgc ccgtagctcc atattggaca tccccagaaa agatggaaaa gaaattgcat 1441 gcagtgccgg ctgccaagac agtgaagttc aaatgccctt ccagtgggac cccaaacccc 1501 acactgcgct ggttgaaaaa tggcaaagaa ttcaaacctg accacagaat tggaggctac 1561 aaggtccgtt atgccacctg gagcatcata atggactctg tggtgccctc tgacaagggc 1621 aactacacct gcattgtgga gaatgagtac ggcagcatca accacacata ccagctggat 1681 gtcgtggagc ggtcccctca ccggcccatc ctgcaagcag ggttgcccgc caacaaaaca 1741 gtggccctgg gtagcaacgt ggagttcatg tgtaaggtgt acagtgaccc gcagccgcac 1801 atccagtggc taaagcacat cgaggtgaat gggagcaaga ttggcccaga caacctgcct 1861 tatgtccaga tcttgaagac tgctggagtt aataccaccg acaaagagat ggaggtgctt 1921 cacttaagaa atgtctcctt tgaggacgca ggggagtata cgtgcttggc gggtaactct 1981 atcggactct cccatcactc tgcatggttg accgttctgg aagccctgga agagaggccg 2041 gcagtgatga cctcgcccct gtacctggag atcatcatct attgcacagg ggccttcctc 2101 atctcctgca tggtggggtc ggtcatcgtc tacaagatga agagtggtac caagaagagt 2161 gacttccaca gccagatggc tgtgcacaag ctggccaaga gcatccctct gcgcagacag 2221 gtgtctgctg actccagtgc atccatgaac tctggggttc ttctggttcg gccatcacgg 2281 ctctcctcca gtgggactcc catgctagca ggggtctctg agtatgagct tcccgaagac 2341 cctcgctggg agctgcctcg ggacagactg gtcttaggca aacccctggg agagggctgc 2401 tttgggcagg tggtgttggc agaggctatc gggctggaca aggacaaacc caaccgtgtg 2461 accaaagtgg ctgtgaagat gttgaagtcg gacgcaacag agaaagactt gtcagacctg 2521 atctcagaaa tggagatgat gaagatgatc gggaagcata agaatatcat caacctgctg 2581 ggggcctgca cgcaggatgg tcccttgtat gtcatcgtgg agtatgcctc caagggcaac 2641 ctgcgggagt acctgcaggc ccggaggccc ccagggctgg aatactgcta caaccccagc 2701 cacaacccag aggagcagct ctcctccaag gacctggtgt cctgcgccta ccaggtggcc 2761 cgaggcatgg agtatctggc ctccaagaag tgcatacacc gagacctggc agccaggaat 2821 gtcctggtga cagaggacaa tgtgatgaag atagcagact ttggcctcgc acgggacatt 2881 caccacatcg actactataa aaagacaacc aacggccgac tgcctgtgaa gtggatggca 2941 cccgaggcat tatttgaccg gatctacacc caccagagtg atgtgtggtc tttcggggtg 3001 ctcctgtggg agatcttcac tctgggcggc tccccatacc ccggtgtgcc tgtggaggaa 3061 cttttcaagc tgctgaagga gggtcaccgc atggacaagc ccagtaactg caccaacgag 3121 ctgtacatga tgatgcggga ctgctggcat gcagtgccct cacagagacc caccttcaag 3181 cagctggtgg aagacctgga ccgcatcgtg gccttgacct ccaaccagga gtacctggac 3241 ctgtccatgc ccctggacca gtactccccc agctttcccg acacccggag ctctacgtgc 3301 tcctcagggg aggattccgt cttctctcat gagccgctgc ccgaggagcc ctgcctgccc 3361 cgacacccag cccagcttgc caatggcgga ctcaaacgcc gctgactgcc acccacacgc 3421 cctccccaga ctccaccgtc agctgtaacc ctcacccaca gcccctgctg ggcccaccac 3481 ctgtccgtcc ctgtcccctt tcctgctggc aggagccggc tgcctaccag gggccttcct 3541 gtgtggcctg ccttcacccc actcagctca cctctccctc cacctcctct ccacctgctg 3601 gtgagaggtg caaagaggca gatctttgct gccagccact tcatcccctc ccagatgttg 3661 gaccaacacc cctccctgcc accaggcact gcctggaggg cagggagtgg gagccaatga 3721 acaggcatgc aagtgagagc ttcctgagct ttctcctgtc ggtttggtct gttttgcctt 3781 cacccataag cccctcgcac tctggtggca ggtgccttgt cctcagggct acagcagtag 3841 ggaggtcagt gcttcgtgcc tcgattgaag gtgacctctg ccccagatag gtggtgccag 3901 tggcttatta attccgatac tagtttgctt tgctgaccaa atgcctggta ccagaggatg 3961 gtgaggcgaa ggccaggttg ggggcagtgt tgtggccctg gggcccagcc ccaaactggg 4021 ggctctgtat atagctatga agaaaacaca aagtgtataa atctgagtat atatttacat 4081 gtctttttaa aagggtcgtt accagagatt tacccatcgg gtaagatgct cctggtggct 4141 gggaggcatc agttgctata tattaaaaac aaaaaagaaa aaaaaggaaa atgtttttaa 4201 aaaggtcata tattttttgc tacttttgct gttttatttt tttaaattat gttctaaacc 4261 tattttcagt ttaggtccct caataaaaat tgctgctgct tcatttatct atgggctgta 4321 tgaaaagggt gggaatgtcc actggaaaga agggacaccc acgggccctg gggctaggtc 4381 tgtcccgagg gcaccgcatg ctcccggcgc aggttccttg taacctcttc ttcctaggtc 4441 ctgcacccag acctcacgac gcacctcctg cctctccgct gcttttggaa agtcagaaaa 4501 agaagatgtc tgcttcgagg gcaggaaccc catccatgca gtagaggcgc tgggcagaga 4561 gtcaaggccc agcagccatc gaccatggat ggtttcctcc aaggaaaccg gtggggttgg 4621 gctggggagg gggcacctac ctaggaatag ccacggggta gagctacagt gattaagagg 4681 aaagcaaggg cgcggttgct cacgcctgta atcccagcac tttgggacac cgaggtgggc 4741 agatcacttc aggtcaggag tttgagacca gcctggccaa cttagtgaaa ccccatctct 4801 actaaaaatg caaaaattat ccaggcatgg tggcacacgc ctgtaatccc agctccacag 4861 gaggctgagg cagaatccct tgaagctggg aggcggaggt tgcagtgagc cgagattgcg 4921 ccattgcact ccagcctggg caacagagaa aacaaaaagg aaaacaaatg atgaaggtct 4981 gcagaaactg aaacccagac atgtgtctgc cccctctatg tgggcatggt tttgccagtg 5041 cttctaagtg caggagaaca tgtcacctga ggctagtttt gcattcaggt ccctggcttc 5101 gtttcttgtt ggtatgcctc cccagatcgt ccttcctgta tccatgtgac cagactgtat 5161 ttgttgggac tgtcgcagat cttggcttct tacagttctt cctgtccaaa ctccatcctg 5221 tccctcagga acggggggaa aattctccga atgtttttgg ttttttggct gcttggaatt 5281 tacttctgcc acctgctggt catcactgtc ctcactaagt ggattctggc tcccccgtac 5341 ctcatggctc aaactaccac tcctcagtcg ctatattaaa gcttatattt tgctggatta 5401 ctgctaaata caaaagaaag ttcaatatgt tttcatttct gtagggaaaa tgggattgct 5461 gctttaaatt tctgagctag ggattttttg gcagctgcag tgttggcgac tattgtaaaa 5521 ttctctttgt ttctctctgt aaatagcacc tgctaacatt acaatttgta tttatgttta 5581 aagaaggcat catttggtga acagaactag gaaatgaatt tttagctctt aaaagcattt 5641 gctttgagac cgcacaggag tgtctttcct tgtaaaacag tgatgataat ttctgccttg 5701 gccctacctt gaagcaatgt tgtgtgaagg gatgaagaat ctaaaagtct tcataagtcc 5761 ttgggagagg tgctagaaaa atataaggca ctatcataat tacagtgatg tccttgctgt 5821 tactactcaa atcacccaca aatttcccca aagactgcgc tagctgtcaa ataaaagaca 5881 gtgaaattga cctga

SEQ ID NO: 185 is the FGFR1 Amino Acid Sequence for isoform 1, having Genebank Accession No. NP_075598 (822 aa):

  1 MWSWKCLLFW AVLVTATLCT ARPSPTLPEQ AQPWGAPVEV ESFLVHPGDL LQLRCRLRDD  61 VQSINWLRDG VQLAESNRTR ITGEEVEVQD SVPADSGLYA CVTSSPSGSD TTYFSVNVSD 121 ALPSSEDDDD DDDSSSEEKE TDNTKPNRMP VAPYWTSPEK MEKKLHAVPA AKTVKFKCPS 181 SGTPNPTLRW LKNGKEFKPD HRIGGYKVRY ATWSIIMDSV VPSDKGNYTC IVENEYGSIN 241 HTYQLDVVER SPHRPILQAG LPANKTVALG SNVEFMCKVY SDPQPHIQWL KHIEVNGSKI 301 GPDNLPYVQI LKTAGVNTTD KEMEVLHLRN VSFEDAGEYT CLAGNSIGLS HHSAWLTVLE 361 ALEERPAVMT SPLYLEIIIY CTGAFLISCM VGSVIVYKMK SGTKKSDFHS QMAVHKLAKS 421 IPLRRQVTVS ADSSASMNSG VLLVRPSRLS SSGTPMLAGV SEYELPEDPR WELPRDRLVL 481 GKPLGEGCFG QVVLAEAIGL DKDKPNRVTK VAVKMLKSDA TEKDLSDLIS EMEMMKMIGK 541 HKNIINLLGA CTQDGPLYVI VEYASKGNLR EYLQARRPPG LEYCYNPSHN PEEQLSSKDL 601 VSCAYQVARG MEYLASKKCI HRDLAARNVL VTEDNVMKIA DFGLARDIHH IDYYKKTTNG 661 RLPVKWMAPE ALFDRIYTHQ SDVWSFGVLL WEIFTLGGSP YPGVPVEELF KLLKEGHRMD 721 KPSNCTNELY MMMRDCWHAV PSQRPTFKQL VEDLDRIVAL TSNQEYLDLS MPLDQYSPSF 781 PDTRSSTCSS GEDSVFSHEP LPEEPCLPRH PAQLANGGLK RR

SEQ ID NO: 186 is the FGFR1 Nucleotide Sequence for isoform 1, having Genebank Accession No. NM_023110 (5917 bp):

   1 agatgcaggg gcgcaaacgc caaaggagac caggctgtag gaagagaagg gcagagcgcc   61 ggacagctcg gcccgctccc cgtcctttgg ggccgcggct ggggaactac aaggcccagc  121 aggcagctgc agggggcgga ggcggaggag ggaccagcgc gggtgggagt gagagagcga  181 gccctcgcgc cccgccggcg catagcgctc ggagcgctct tgcggccaca ggcgcggcgt  241 cctcggcggc gggcggcagc tagcgggagc cgggacgccg gtgcagccgc agcgcgcgga  301 ggaacccggg tgtgccggga gctgggcggc cacgtccgga cgggaccgag acccctcgta  361 gcgcattgcg gcgacctcgc cttccccggc cgcgagcgcg ccgctgcttg aaaagccgcg  421 gaacccaagg acttttctcc ggtccgagct cggggcgccc cgcagggcgc acggtacccg  481 tgctgcagtc gggcacgccg cggcgccggg gcctccgcag ggcgatggag cccggtctgc  541 aaggaaagtg aggcgccgcc gctgcgttct ggaggagggg ggcacaaggt ctggagaccc  601 cgggtggcgg acgggagccc tccccccgcc ccgcctccgg ggcaccagct ccggctccat  661 tgttcccgcc cgggctggag gcgccgagca ccgagcgccg ccgggagtcg agcgccggcc  721 gcggagctct tgcgaccccg ccaggacccg aacagagccc gggggcggcg ggccggagcc  781 ggggacgcgg gcacacgccc gctcgcacaa gccacggcgg actctcccga ggcggaacct  841 ccacgccgag cgagggtcag tttgaaaagg aggatcgagc tcactgtgga gtatccatgg  901 agatgtggag ccttgtcacc aacctctaac tgcagaactg ggatgtggag ctggaagtgc  961 ctcctcttct gggctgtgct ggtcacagcc acactctgca ccgctaggcc gtccccgacc 1021 ttgcctgaac aagcccagcc ctggggagcc cctgtggaag tggagtcctt cctggtccac 1081 cccggtgacc tgctgcagct tcgctgtcgg ctgcgggacg atgtgcagag catcaactgg 1141 ctgcgggacg gggtgcagct ggcggaaagc aaccgcaccc gcatcacagg ggaggaggtg 1201 gaggtgcagg actccgtgcc cgcagactcc ggcctctatg cttgcgtaac cagcagcccc 1261 tcgggcagtg acaccaccta cttctccgtc aatgtttcag atgctctccc ctcctcggag 1321 gatgatgatg atgatgatga ctcctcttca gaggagaaag aaacagataa caccaaacca 1381 aaccgtatgc ccgtagctcc atattggaca tccccagaaa agatggaaaa gaaattgcat 1441 gcagtgccgg ctgccaagac agtgaagttc aaatgccctt ccagtgggac cccaaacccc 1501 acactgcgct ggttgaaaaa tggcaaagaa ttcaaacctg accacagaat tggaggctac 1561 aaggtccgtt atgccacctg gagcatcata atggactctg tggtgccctc tgacaagggc 1621 aactacacct gcattgtgga gaatgagtac ggcagcatca accacacata ccagctggat 1681 gtcgtggagc ggtcccctca ccggcccatc ctgcaagcag ggttgcccgc caacaaaaca 1741 gtggccctgg gtagcaacgt ggagttcatg tgtaaggtgt acagtgaccc gcagccgcac 1801 atccagtggc taaagcacat cgaggtgaat gggagcaaga ttggcccaga caacctgcct 1861 tatgtccaga tcttgaagac tgctggagtt aataccaccg acaaagagat ggaggtgctt 1921 cacttaagaa atgtctcctt tgaggacgca ggggagtata cgtgcttggc gggtaactct 1981 atcggactct cccatcactc tgcatggttg accgttctgg aagccctgga agagaggccg 2041 gcagtgatga cctcgcccct gtacctggag atcatcatct attgcacagg ggccttcctc 2101 atctcctgca tggtggggtc ggtcatcgtc tacaagatga agagtggtac caagaagagt 2161 gacttccaca gccagatggc tgtgcacaag ctggccaaga gcatccctct gcgcagacag 2221 gtaacagtgt ctgctgactc cagtgcatcc atgaactctg gggttcttct ggttcggcca 2281 tcacggctct cctccagtgg gactcccatg ctagcagggg tctctgagta tgagcttccc 2341 gaagaccctc gctgggagct gcctcgggac agactggtct taggcaaacc cctgggagag 2401 ggctgctttg ggcaggtggt gttggcagag gctatcgggc tggacaagga caaacccaac 2461 cgtgtgacca aagtggctgt gaagatgttg aagtcggacg caacagagaa agacttgtca 2521 gacctgatct cagaaatgga gatgatgaag atgatcggga agcataagaa tatcatcaac 2581 ctgctggggg cctgcacgca ggatggtccc ttgtatgtca tcgtggagta tgcctccaag 2641 ggcaacctgc gggagtacct gcaggcccgg aggcccccag ggctggaata ctgctacaac 2701 cccagccaca acccagagga gcagctctcc tccaaggacc tggtgtcctg cgcctaccag 2761 gtggcccgag gcatggagta tctggcctcc aagaagtgca tacaccgaga cctggcagcc 2821 aggaatgtcc tggtgacaga ggacaatgtg atgaagatag cagactttgg cctcgcacgg 2881 gacattcacc acatcgacta ctataaaaag acaaccaacg gccgactgcc tgtgaagtgg 2941 atggcacccg aggcattatt tgaccggatc tacacccacc agagtgatgt gtggtctttc 3001 ggggtgctcc tgtgggagat cttcactctg ggcggctccc cataccccgg tgtgcctgtg 3061 gaggaacttt tcaagctgct gaaggagggt caccgcatgg acaagcccag taactgcacc 3121 aacgagctgt acatgatgat gcgggactgc tggcatgcag tgccctcaca gagacccacc 3181 ttcaagcagc tggtggaaga cctggaccgc atcgtggcct tgacctccaa ccaggagtac 3241 ctggacctgt ccatgcccct ggaccagtac tcccccagct ttcccgacac ccggagctct 3301 acgtgctcct caggggagga ttccgtcttc tctcatgagc cgctgcccga ggagccctgc 3361 ctgccccgac acccagccca gcttgccaat ggcggactca aacgccgctg actgccaccc 3421 acacgccctc cccagactcc accgtcagct gtaaccctca cccacagccc ctgctgggcc 3481 caccacctgt ccgtccctgt cccctttcct gctggcagga gccggctgcc taccaggggc 3541 cttcctgtgt ggcctgcctt caccccactc agctcacctc tccctccacc tcctctccac 3601 ctgctggtga gaggtgcaaa gaggcagatc tttgctgcca gccacttcat cccctcccag 3661 atgttggacc aacacccctc cctgccacca ggcactgcct ggagggcagg gagtgggagc 3721 caatgaacag gcatgcaagt gagagcttcc tgagctttct cctgtcggtt tggtctgttt 3781 tgccttcacc cataagcccc tcgcactctg gtggcaggtg ccttgtcctc agggctacag 3841 cagtagggag gtcagtgctt cgtgcctcga ttgaaggtga cctctgcccc agataggtgg 3901 tgccagtggc ttattaattc cgatactagt ttgctttgct gaccaaatgc ctggtaccag 3961 aggatggtga ggcgaaggcc aggttggggg cagtgttgtg gccctggggc ccagccccaa 4021 actgggggct ctgtatatag ctatgaagaa aacacaaagt gtataaatct gagtatatat 4081 ttacatgtct ttttaaaagg gtcgttacca gagatttacc catcgggtaa gatgctcctg 4141 gtggctggga ggcatcagtt gctatatatt aaaaacaaaa aagaaaaaaa aggaaaatgt 4201 ttttaaaaag gtcatatatt ttttgctact tttgctgttt tattttttta aattatgttc 4261 taaacctatt ttcagtttag gtccctcaat aaaaattgct gctgcttcat ttatctatgg 4321 gctgtatgaa aagggtggga atgtccactg gaaagaaggg acacccacgg gccctggggc 4381 taggtctgtc ccgagggcac cgcatgctcc cggcgcaggt tccttgtaac ctcttcttcc 4441 taggtcctgc acccagacct cacgacgcac ctcctgcctc tccgctgctt ttggaaagtc 4501 agaaaaagaa gatgtctgct tcgagggcag gaaccccatc catgcagtag aggcgctggg 4561 cagagagtca aggcccagca gccatcgacc atggatggtt tcctccaagg aaaccggtgg 4621 ggttgggctg gggagggggc acctacctag gaatagccac ggggtagagc tacagtgatt 4681 aagaggaaag caagggcgcg gttgctcacg cctgtaatcc cagcactttg ggacaccgag 4741 gtgggcagat cacttcaggt caggagtttg agaccagcct ggccaactta gtgaaacccc 4801 atctctacta aaaatgcaaa aattatccag gcatggtggc acacgcctgt aatcccagct 4861 ccacaggagg ctgaggcaga atcccttgaa gctgggaggc ggaggttgca gtgagccgag 4921 attgcgccat tgcactccag cctgggcaac agagaaaaca aaaaggaaaa caaatgatga 4981 aggtctgcag aaactgaaac ccagacatgt gtctgccccc tctatgtggg catggttttg 5041 ccagtgcttc taagtgcagg agaacatgtc acctgaggct agttttgcat tcaggtccct 5101 ggcttcgttt cttgttggta tgcctcccca gatcgtcctt cctgtatcca tgtgaccaga 5161 ctgtatttgt tgggactgtc gcagatcttg gcttcttaca gttcttcctg tccaaactcc 5221 atcctgtccc tcaggaacgg ggggaaaatt ctccgaatgt ttttggtttt ttggctgctt 5281 ggaatttact tctgccacct gctggtcatc actgtcctca ctaagtggat tctggctccc 5341 ccgtacctca tggctcaaac taccactcct cagtcgctat attaaagctt atattttgct 5401 ggattactgc taaatacaaa agaaagttca atatgttttc atttctgtag ggaaaatggg 5461 attgctgctt taaatttctg agctagggat tttttggcag ctgcagtgtt ggcgactatt 5521 gtaaaattct ctttgtttct ctctgtaaat agcacctgct aacattacaa tttgtattta 5581 tgtttaaaga aggcatcatt tggtgaacag aactaggaaa tgaattttta gctcttaaaa 5641 gcatttgctt tgagaccgca caggagtgtc tttccttgta aaacagtgat gataatttct 5701 gccttggccc taccttgaag caatgttgtg tgaagggatg aagaatctaa aagtcttcat 5761 aagtccttgg gagaggtgct agaaaaatat aaggcactat cataattaca gtgatgtcct 5821 tgctgttact actcaaatca cccacaaatt tccccaaaga ctgcgctagc tgtcaaataa 5881 aagacagtga aattgacctg aaaaaaaaaa aaaaaaa

The Genbank ID for the TACC1 gene is 6867. Three isoforms are listed for TACC1, e.g., having Genebank Accession Nos. NP_006274 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_001174063); NP_001167535 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_001174064); NP_001167536 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_001174065).

SEQ ID NO: 148 is the TACC1 Amino Acid Sequence for isoform 1, having Genebank Accession No. NP_006274 (805 aa):

  1 MAFSPWQILS PVQWAKWTWS AVRGGAAGED EAGGPEGDPE EEDSQAETKS LSFSSDSEGN  61 FETPEAETPI RSPFKESCDP SLGLAGPGAK SQESQEADEQ LVAEVVEKCS SKTCSKPSEN 121 EVPQQAIDSH SVKNFREEPE HDFSKISIVR PFSIETKDST DISAVLGTKA AHGCVTAVSG 181 KALPSSPPDA LQDEAMTEGS MGVTLEASAE ADLKAGNSCP ELVPSRRSKL RKPKPVPLRK 241 KAIGGEFSDT NAAVEGTPLP KASYHFSPEE LDENTSPLLG DARFQKSPPD LKETPGTLSS 301 DTNDSGVELG EESRSSPLKL EFDFTEDTGN IEARKALPRK LGRKLGSTLT PKIQKDGISK 361 SAGLEQPTDP VARDGPLSQT SSKPDPSQWE SPSFNPFGSH SVLQNSPPLS SEGSYHFDPD 421 NFDESMDPFK PTTTLTSSDF CSPTGNHVNE ILESPKKAKS RLITSGCKVK KHETQSLALD 481 ACSRDEGAVI SQISDISNRD GHATDEEKLA STSCGQKSAG AEVKGEPEED LEYFECSNVP 541 VSTINHAFSS SEAGIEKETC QKMEEDGSTV LGLLESSAEK APVSVSCGGE SPLDGICLSE 601 SDKTAVLTLI REEIITKEIE ANEWKKKYEE TRQEVLEMRK IVAEYEKTIA QMIEDEQRTS 661 MTSQKSFQQL TMEKEQALAD LNSVERSLSD LFRRYENLKG VLEGFKKNEE ALKKCAQDYL 721 ARVKQEEQRY QALKIHAEEK LDKANEEIAQ VRTKAKAESA ALHAGLRKEQ MKVESLERAL 781 QQKNQEIEEL TKICDELIAK LGKTD

SEQ ID NO: 149 is the TACC1 Nucleotide Sequence for isoform 1, having Genebank Accession No. NM_006283 (7802 bp):

   1 agctgatgcg cgccccgccg gccgggaggc gggagtccgc gagccgggag cgggagcagc   61 agaggtctag cagccgggcg ccgcgggccg ggggcctgag gaggccacag gacgggcgtc  121 ttcccggcta gtggagcccg gcgcggggcc cgctgcggcc gcaccgtgag gggaggaggc  181 cgaggaggac gcagcgccgg ctgccggcgg gaggaagcgc tccaccaggg cccccgacgg  241 cactcgttta accacatccg cgcctctgct ggaaacgctt gctggcgcct gtcaccggtt  301 ccctccattt tgaaagggaa aaaggctctc cccacccatt cccctgcccc taggagctgg  361 agccggagga gccgcgctca tggcgttcag cccgtggcag atcctgtccc ccgtgcagtg  421 ggcgaaatgg acgtggtctg cggtacgcgg cggggccgcc ggcgaggacg aggctggcgg  481 gcccgagggc gaccccgagg aggaggattc gcaagccgag accaaatcct tgagtttcag  541 ctcggattct gaaggtaatt ttgagactcc tgaagctgaa accccgatcc gatcaccttt  601 caaggagtcc tgtgatccat cactcggatt ggcaggacct ggggccaaaa gccaagaatc  661 acaagaagct gatgaacagc ttgtagcaga agtggttgaa aaatgttcat ctaagacttg  721 ttctaaacct tcagaaaatg aagtgccaca gcaggccatt gactctcact cagtcaagaa  781 tttcagagaa gaacctgaac atgattttag caaaatttcc atcgtgaggc cattttcaat  841 agaaacgaag gattccacgg atatctcggc agtcctcgga acaaaagcag ctcatggctg  901 tgtaactgca gtctcaggca aggctctgcc ttccagcccg ccagacgccc tccaggacga  961 ggcgatgaca gaaggcagca tgggggtcac cctcgaggcc tccgcagaag ctgatctaaa 1021 agctggcaac tcctgtccag agcttgtgcc cagcagaaga agcaagctga gaaagcccaa 1081 gcctgtcccc ctgaggaaga aagcaattgg aggagagttc tcagacacca acgctgctgt 1141 ggagggcaca cctctcccca aggcatccta tcacttcagt cctgaagagt tggatgagaa 1201 cacaagtcct ttgctaggag atgccaggtt ccagaagtct ccccctgacc ttaaagaaac 1261 tcccggcact ctcagtagtg acaccaacga ctcaggggtt gagctggggg aggagtcgag 1321 gagctcacct ctcaagcttg agtttgattt cacagaagat acaggaaaca tagaggccag 1381 gaaagccctt ccaaggaagc ttggcaggaa actgggtagc acactgactc ccaagataca 1441 aaaagatggc atcagtaagt cagcaggttt agaacagcct acagacccag tggcacgaga 1501 cgggcctctc tcccaaacat cttccaagcc agatcctagt cagtgggaaa gccccagctt 1561 caaccccttt gggagccact ctgttctgca gaactcccca cccctctctt ctgagggctc 1621 ctaccacttt gacccagata actttgacga atccatggat ccctttaaac caactacgac 1681 cttaacaagc agtgactttt gttctcccac tggtaatcac gttaatgaaa tcttagaatc 1741 acccaagaag gcaaagtcgc gtttaataac gagtggctgt aaggtgaaga agcatgaaac 1801 tcagtctctc gccctggatg catgttctcg ggatgaaggg gcagtgatct cccagatttc 1861 agacatttct aatagggatg gccatgctac tgatgaggag aaactggcat ccacgtcatg 1921 tggtcagaaa tcagctggtg ccgaggtgaa aggtgagcca gaggaagacc tggagtactt 1981 tgaatgttcc aatgttcctg tgtctaccat aaatcatgcg ttttcatcct cagaagcagg 2041 catagagaag gagacgtgcc agaagatgga agaagacggg tccactgtgc ttgggctgct 2101 ggagtcctct gcagagaagg cccctgtgtc ggtgtcctgt ggaggtgaga gccccctgga 2161 tgggatctgc ctcagcgaat cagacaagac agccgtgctc accttaataa gagaagagat 2221 aattactaaa gagattgaag caaatgaatg gaagaagaaa tacgaagaga cccggcaaga 2281 agttttggag atgaggaaaa ttgtagctga atatgaaaag actattgctc aaatgattga 2341 agatgaacaa aggacaagta tgacctctca gaagagcttc cagcaactga ccatggagaa 2401 ggaacaggcc ctggctgacc ttaactctgt ggaaaggtcc ctttctgatc tcttcaggag 2461 atatgagaac ctgaaaggtg ttctggaagg gttcaagaag aatgaagaag ccttgaagaa 2521 atgtgctcag gattacttag ccagagttaa acaagaggag cagcgatacc aggccctgaa 2581 aatccacgca gaagagaaac tggacaaagc caatgaagag attgctcagg ttcgaacaaa 2641 agcaaaggct gagagtgcag ctctccatgc tggactccgc aaagagcaga tgaaggtgga 2701 gtccctggaa agggccctgc agcagaagaa ccaagaaatt gaagaactga caaaaatctg 2761 tgatgagctg attgcaaagc tgggaaagac tgac tgagac actccccctg ttagctcaac 2821 agatctgcat ttggctgctt ctcttgtgac cacaattatc ttgccttatc caggaataat 2881 tgcccctttg cagagaaaaa aaaaaactta aaaaaagcac atgcctactg ctgcctgtcc 2941 cgctttgctg ccaatgcaac agccctggaa gaaaccctag agggttgcat agtctagaaa 3001 ggagtgtgac ctgacagtgc tggagcctcc tagtttcccc ctatgaaggt tcccttaggc 3061 tgctgagttt gggtttgtga tttatcttta gtttgtttta aagtcatctt tactttccca 3121 aatgtgttaa atttgtaact cctctttggg gtcttctcca ccacctgtct gatttttttg 3181 tgatctgttt aatcttttaa ttttttagta tcagtggttt tatttaagga gacagtttgg 3241 cctattgtta cttccaattt ataatcaaga aggggctctg gatccccttt taaattacac 3301 acactctcac acacatacat gtatgtttat agatgctgct gctcttttcc ctgaagcata 3361 gtcaagtaag aactgctcta cagaaggaca tatttccttg gatgtgagac cctattttga 3421 aatagagtcc tgactcagaa caccaactta agaatttggg ggattaaaga tgtgaagacc 3481 acagtcttgg gttttcatat ctggagaaga ctatttgcca tgacgttttg ttgccctggt 3541 atttggacac tcctcagctt taatgggtgt ggccccttta gggttagtcc tcagactaat 3601 gatagtgtct gctttctgca tgaacggcaa tatgggactc cctccaagct agggtttggc 3661 aagtctgccc tagagtcatt tactctcctc tgcctccatt tgttaataca gaatcaacat 3721 ttagtcttca ttatcttttt tttttttttt gagacagagt ttcgatctat tttaagtatg 3781 tgaagaaaat ctacttgtaa aaggctcaga tcttaattaa aaggtaattg tagcacatta 3841 ccaattataa ggtgaagaaa tgtttttttc ccaagtgtga tgcattgttc ttcagatgtt 3901 gaaaagaaag caaaaaatac cttctaactt aagacagaat ttttaacaaa atgagcagta 3961 aaagtcacat gaaccactcc aaaaatcagt gcattttgca tatttttaaa caaagacagc 4021 ttgttgaata ctgagaagag gagtgcaagg agaaggtctg tactaacaaa gccaaattcc 4081 tcaagctctt actggactca gttcagagtg gtgggccatt aaccccaaca tggaattttt 4141 ccatataaat ctcaatgaat tccctttcat ttgaataggc aaacccaaat ccatgcaagt 4201 gttttaaagc actgtcctgt cttaatctta catgctgaaa gtcttcatgg tgatatgcac 4261 tatattcagt atacgtatgt tttcctactt ctcttgtaaa actgttgcat gatccaactt 4321 cagcaatgaa ttgtgcctag tggagaacct ctatagatct taaaaaatga attattcttt 4381 agcagtgtat tactcacatg ggtgcaatct ttagccccag ggaggtcaat aatgtctttt 4441 aaagccagaa gtcacatttt accaatatgc atttatcata attggtgctt aggctgtata 4501 ttcaagcctg ttgtcttaac attttgtata aaaaagaaca acagaaatta tctgtcattt 4561 gagaagtggc ttgacaatca tttgagcttt gaaagcagtc actgtggtgt aatatgaatg 4621 ctgtcctagt ggtcatagta ccaagggcac gtgtctcccc ttggtataac tgatttcctt 4681 tttagtcctc tactgctaaa taagttaatt ttgcattttg cagaaagaaa cattgattgc 4741 taaatctttt tgctgctgtg ttttggtgtt ttcatgttta cttgttttat attgatctgt 4801 tttaagtatg agaggcttat agtgccctcc attgtaaatc catagtcatc tttttaagct 4861 tattgtgttt aagaaagtag ctatgtgtta aacagaggtg atggcagccc ttccctagca 4921 cactggtgga agagacccct taagaacctg accccagtga atgaagctga tgcacaggga 4981 gcaccaaagg accttcgtta agtgataatt gtcctggcct ctcagccatg accgttatga 5041 ggaaatatcc cccattcgaa cttaacagat gcctcctctc caaagagaat taaaatcgta 5101 gcttgtacag atcaagagaa tatactgggc agaatgaagt atgtttgttt atttttcttt 5161 aaaaataaag gattttggaa ctctggagag taagaatata gtatagagtt tgcctcaaca 5221 catgtgaggg ccaaataacc tgctagctag gcagtaataa actctgttac agaagagaaa 5281 aagggccggg cacagtggct tattcctgta atcccaacac tgtggaaggc cgaggcagga 5341 ggatcacttg agtccaggag tttgaaacct acctaggcaa catggtgaaa ccttgtctct 5401 accaaaataa aaattagctg ggcatggtgg cacgtgcctg tggtcccagc tacttgggag 5461 gctgaggtgg gagcctggga ggtcaaggct gcagtgagcc atgatcatgc cactgcactc 5521 catcctgggt gacagcaaga tcttgtctca aaaaaaaaaa aaaaaaaaaa aaaaccagga 5581 gtgaaaaagg aaagtagaag gcagctgctg gcctagatgt tggtttggga atattaggtg 5641 atcctgttga gattctggat ccagagcaat ttctttagct tttgactttg ccaaagtgta 5701 gatagccttt atccagcagt attttaagtg gggaatgcaa cgtgaggcca actgaacaat 5761 tccccccgtg gctgcccaga tagtcacagt caaggttgga gagtctcctt ccagccagtg 5821 acctacccaa accttttgtt ctgtaaaact gctctggaaa taccgggaag cccagttttc 5881 tcacgtggtt tctagcttct tcagactcag cccaaattag gaagtgcaga agcacatgat 5941 ggtgaaaaac ctaggatttg gcagccttcc agaatggtat ggaatctgag ggaagattta 6001 tgtttcgttt tggaggatag ctcaagttga attttctttc cagccagtta ccctttcaac 6061 ctacccatac tttgtacaac tcttacacaa atacttagat atttattaga tagccctgaa 6121 ttcactctaa ttataaacag ggagtgtaaa ctgcccccag atgttcctgg gctgggtaaa 6181 agcagctgga gtgaagcact cattttccat aaaggtaaca aagggcagct cagtggttac 6241 tcaagctcaa aagggttttt ttaagagcaa gcattggtta agtctgtgta tactgagttg 6301 gaagtgattt cagcacattc ttttttagtg gagtgaaagt tctgaagccc ccttttaact 6361 tcctcttggt ttttcattat aattggtagc catctcatga actgtctctg actgttgtct 6421 ctttgtggtc atgtgattgt gagcttgctt tctgacttgc atttctgact ttatcctgtt 6481 gttaggaaga tagaaactag gttttgaaag attacatgat tcaagcgagg gattttaaag 6541 taaagatgta tttattctga agaatctaaa agataacaga ttatttgctt atgaaagaac 6601 aatatagtct gggaatccca gaatgtcaag ccaaaggtct aagaagtcat ctccttcaaa 6661 tactttaata aagaagtatt tcgaggagat atctgtccaa aaaggtttga ctggcctcca 6721 gattccagtt atttttaaaa agcaacttac cactaaatcc ttgagtctcc atagagtaac 6781 agtaaagaaa ctgatgtaac agactctcct ctcaaaggat ctcctctgga agagactatc 6841 agcggcagca ttctccaggg aagacccatc ccctagtgcc agagcttgca tcctggagac 6901 taaagattgc acttttttgt agttttttgt ccaaatgcaa tcccatttct gtgcctctta 6961 gcatgcagtt agatttggac aaacaagatt cctaaggaat gactttatta actataatat 7021 ggttacagct attatataaa tatatattct ggttatagtt ctaatatgga gatgttgtgt 7081 gcaatgctgg cctgtggtgg tctgtgtaat gctttaactt gtatggagga ggccaggctc 7141 agagctgaga tgtggcctga accttccctg tatcgatcct ttaatttaga actgtcaaga 7201 tgtcactttc tccccctctg ccttttagtg gtatctgaca tatactcaaa acagtaattt 7261 cctggtcaca tcattaactg ctaattctgt atttataaag aattttcaga tggacatgta 7321 caaatttgaa ctcaaaccat ccccagtcca gatacagggc agcgtgtagg tgaccacacc 7381 agagcctcag cctcggtcct tctcagccgt cgggatagga tccaggcatt tcttttaaat 7441 ctcagaggta gcagtaaact tttcagtatt gctgttagca agtgtgtgtt tgccaataga 7501 tacccattat actaatgtgc caagtaaatg ttcattgcac atctgcttcc actgtgttcc 7561 cacgggtgcc atgaagtgtg tgaggagccc ctcatctgga gggatgagtg ctgcgttgac 7621 tactgctatc aggattgtgt tgtgtggaat attcatctac ataaatttta tatgcacagt 7681 aatttccctt tttatatgtc aagtaactat ttgtaaaagt tatactcaca aattattata 7741 atgattacta atatattttt tccatgtttc attgcctgaa taaaaactgt ttaccactgt 7801 ta

SEQ ID NO: 150 is the amino acid sequence of the FGFR1-TACC1 fusion protein.

MWSWKCLLFWAVLVTATLCTARPSPTLPEQDALPSSEDDDDDDDSSSEEKE TDNTKPNPVAPYWTSPEKMEKKLHAVPAAKTVKFKCPSSGTPNPTLRWLKN GKEFKPDHRIGGYKVRYATWSIIMDSVVPSDKGNYTCIVENEYGSINHTYQ LDVVERSPHRPILQAGLPANKTVALGSNVEFMCKVYSDPQPHIQWLKHIEV NGSKIGPDNLPYVQILKTAGVNTTDKEMEVLHLRNVSFEDAGEYTCLAGNS IGLSHHSAWLTVLEALEERPAVMTSPLYLEIIIYCTGAFLISCMVGSVIVY KMKSGTKKSDFHSQMAVHKLAKSIPLRRQVTVSADSSASMNSGVLLVRPSR LSSSGTPMLAGVSEYELPEDPRWELPRDRLVLGKPLGEGCFGQVVLAEAIG LDKDKPNRVTKVAVKMLKSDATEKDLSDLISEMEMMKMIGKHKNIINLLGA CTQDGPLYVIVEYASKGNLREYLQARRPPGLEYCYNPSHNPEEQLSSKDLV SCAYQVARGMEYLASKKCIHRDLAARNVLVTEDNVMKIADFGLARDIHHID YYKKTTNGRLPVKWMAPEALFDRIYTHQSDVWSFGVLLWEIFTLGGSPYPG VPVEELFKLLKEGHRMDKPSNCTNELYMMMRDCWHAVPSQRPTFKQLVEDL DRIVALTSNQGLLESSAEKAPVSVSCGGESPLDGICLSESDKTAVLTLIRE EIITKEIEANEWKKKYEETRQEVLEMRKIVAEYEKTIAQMIEDEQRTSMTS QKSFQQLTMEKEQALADLNSVERSLSDLFRRYENLKGVLEGFKKNEEALKK CAQDYLARVKQEEQRYQALKIHAEEKLDKANEEIAQVRTKAKAESAALHAG LRKEQMKVESLERALQQKNQEIEELTKICDELIAKLGKTD

SEQ ID NO: 151 is the nucleotide sequence that encodes the FGFR1-TACC1 fusion protein.

atgtggagctggaagtgcctcctcttctgggctgtgctggtcacagccaca ctctgcaccgctaggccgtccccgaccttgcctgaacaagcccagccctgg ggagcccctgtggaagtggagtccttcctggtccaccccggtgacctgctg cagcttcgctgtcggctgcgggacgatgtgcagagcatcaactggctgcgg gacggggtgcagctggcggaaagcaaccgcacccgcatcacaggggaggag gtggaggtgcaggactccgtgcccgcagactccggcctctatgcttgcgta accagcagcccctcgggcagtgacaccacctacttctccgtcaatgtttca gatgctctcccctcctcggaggatgatgatgatgatgatgactcctcttca gaggagaaagaaacagataacaccaaaccaaaccgtatgcccgtagctcca tattggacatccccagaaaagatggaaaagaaattgcatgcagtgccggct gccaagacagtgaagttcaaatgcccttccagtgggaccccaaaccccaca ctgcgctggttgaaaaatggcaaagaattcaaacctgaccacagaattgga ggctacaaggtccgttatgccacctggagcatcataatggactctgtggtg ccctctgacaagggcaactacacctgcattgtggagaatgagtacggcagc atcaaccacacataccagctggatgtcgtggagcggtcccctcaccggccc atcctgcaagcagggttgcccgccaacaaaacagtggccctgggtagcaac gtggagttcatgtgtaaggtgtacagtgacccgcagccgcacatccagtgg ctaaagcacatcgaggtgaatgggagcaagattggcccagacaacctgcct tatgtccagatcttgaagactgctggagttaataccaccgacaaagagatg gaggtgcttcacttaagaaatgtctcctttgaggacgcaggggagtatacg tgcttggcgggtaactctatcggactctcccatcactctgcatggttgacc gttctggaagccctggaagagaggccggcagtgatgacctcgcccctgtac ctggagatcatcatctattgcacaggggccttcctcatctcctgcatggtg gggtcggtcatcgtctacaagatgaagagtggtaccaagaagagtgacttc cacagccagatggctgtgcacaagctggccaagagcatccctctgcgcaga caggtgtctgctgactccagtgcatccatgaactctggggttcttctggtt cggccatcacggctctcctccagtgggactcccatgctagcaggggtctct gagtatgagcttcccgaagaccctcgctgggagctgcctcgggacagactg gtcttaggcaaacccctgggagagggctgctttgggcaggtggtgttggca gaggctatcgggctggacaaggacaaacccaaccgtgtgaccaaagtggct gtgaagatgttgaagtcggacgcaacagagaaagacttgtcagacctgatc tcagaaatggagatgatgaagatgatcgggaagcataagaatatcatcaac ctgctgggggcctgcacgcaggatggtcccttgtatgtcatcgtggagtat gcctccaagggcaacctgcgggagtacctgcaggcccggaggcccccaggg ctggaatactgctacaaccccagccacaacccagaggagcagctctcctcc aaggacctggtgtcctgcgcctaccaggtggcccgaggcatggagtatctg gcctccaagaagtgcatacaccgagacctggcagccaggaatgtcctggtg acagaggacaatgtgatgaagatagcagactttggcctcgcacgggacatt caccacatcgactactataaaaagacaaccaacggccgactgcctgtgaag tggatggcacccgaggcattatttgaccggatctacacccaccagagtgat gtgtggtctttcggggtgctcctgtgggagatcttcactctgggcggctcc ccataccccggtgtgcctgtggaggaacttttcaagctgctgaaggagggt caccgcatggacaagcccagtaactgcaccaacgagctgtacatgatgatg cgggactgctggcatgcagtgccctcacagagacccaccttcaagcagctg gtggaagacctggaccgcatcgtggccttgacctccaaccagtgggctgct ggagtcctctgcagagaaggcccctgtgtcggtgtcctgtggaggtgagag ccccctggatgggatctgcctcagcgaatcagacaagacagccgtgctcac cttaataagagaagagataattactaaagagattgaagcaaatgaatggaa gaagaaatacgaagagacccggcaagaagttttggagatgaggaaaattgt agctgaatatgaaaagactattgctcaaatgattgaagatgaacaaaggac aagtatgacctctcagaagagcttccagcaactgaccatggagaaggaaca ggccctggctgaccttaactctgtggaaaggtccctttctgatctcttcag gagatatgagaacctgaaaggtgttctggaagggttcaagaagaatgaaga agccttgaagaaatgtgctcaggattacttagccagagttaaacaagagga gcagcgataccaggccctgaaaatccacgcagaagagaaactggacaaagc caatgaagagattgctcaggttcgaacaaaagcaaaggctgagagtgcagc tctccatgctggactccgcaaagagcagatgaaggtggagtccctggaaag ggccctgcagcagaagaaccaagaaattgaagaactgacaaaaatctgtga tgagctgattgcaaagctgggaaagactgac

The Genbank ID for the FGFR2 gene is 2263. Eight isoforms are listed for FGFR2, e.g., having Genebank Accession Nos. NP_000132 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_000141); NP_001138385 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_001144913); NP_001138386 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_001144914); NP_001138387 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_001144915); NP_001138388 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_001144916); NP_001138389 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_001144917); NP_001138390 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_001144918); NP_001138391 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_001144919); NP_075259 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_022970).

SEQ ID NO: 152 is the FGFR2 Amino Acid Sequence for isoform 1, having Genebank Accession No. NP_000132 (821 aa):

  1 MVSWGRFICL VVVTMATLSL ARPSFSLVED TTLEPEEPPT KYQISQPEVY VAAPGESLEV  61 RCLLKDAAVI SWTKDGVHLG PNNRTVLIGE YLQIKGATPR DSGLYACTAS RTVDSETWYF 121 MVNVTDAISS GDDEDDTDGA EDFVSENSNN KRAPYWTNTE KMEKRLHAVP AANTVKFRCP 181 AGGNPMPTMR WLKNGKEFKQ EHRIGGYKVR NQHWSLIMES VVPSDKGNYT CVVENEYGSI 241 NHTYHLDVVE RSPHRPILQA GLPANASTVV GGDVEFVCKV YSDAQPHIQW IKHVEKNGSK 301 YGPDGLPYLK VLKAAGVNTT DKEIEVLYIR NVTFEDAGEY TCLAGNSIGI SFHSAWLTVL 361 PAPGREKEIT ASPDYLEIAI YCIGVFLIAC MVVTVILCRM KNTTKKPDFS SQPAVHKLTK 421 RIPLRRQVTV SAESSSSMNS NTPLVRITTR LSSTADTPML AGVSEYELPE DPKWEFPRDK 481 LTLGKPLGEG CFGQVVMAEA VGIDKDKPKE AVTVAVKMLK DDATEKDLSD LVSEMEMMKM 541 IGKHKNIINL LGACTQDGPL YVIVEYASKG NLREYLRARR PPGMEYSYDI NRVPEEQMTF 601 KDLVSCTYQL ARGMEYLASQ KCIHRDLAAR NVLVTENNVM KIADFGLARD INNIDYYKKT 661 TNGRLPVKWM APEALFDRVY THQSDVWSFG VLMWEIFTLG GSPYPGIPVE ELFKLLKEGH 721 RMDKPANCTN ELYMMMRDCW HAVPSQRPTF KQLVEDLDRI LTLTTNEEYL DLSQPLEQYS 781 PSYPDTRSSC SSGDDSVFSP DPMPYEPCLP QYPHINGSVK T

SEQ ID NO: 153 is the FGFR2 Nucleotide Sequence for isoform 1, having Genebank Accession No. NM_000141 (4654 bp):

   1 ggcggcggct ggaggagagc gcggtggaga gccgagcggg cgggcggcgg gtgcggagcg   61 ggcgagggag cgcgcgcggc cgccacaaag ctcgggcgcc gcggggctgc atgcggcgta  121 cctggcccgg cgcggcgact gctctccggg ctggcggggg ccggccgcga gccccggggg  181 ccccgaggcc gcagcttgcc tgcgcgctct gagccttcgc aactcgcgag caaagtttgg  241 tggaggcaac gccaagcctg agtcctttct tcctctcgtt ccccaaatcc gagggcagcc  301 cgcgggcgtc atgcccgcgc tcctccgcag cctggggtac gcgtgaagcc cgggaggctt  361 ggcgccggcg aagacccaag gaccactctt ctgcgtttgg agttgctccc cgcaaccccg  421 ggctcgtcgc tttctccatc ccgacccacg cggggcgcgg ggacaacaca ggtcgcggag  481 gagcgttgcc attcaagtga ctgcagcagc agcggcagcg cctcggttcc tgagcccacc  541 gcaggctgaa ggcattgcgc gtagtccatg cccgtagagg aagtgtgcag atgggattaa  601 cgtccacatg gagatatgga agaggaccgg ggattggtac cgtaaccatg gtcagctggg  661 gtcgtttcat ctgcctggtc gtggtcacca tggcaacctt gtccctggcc cggccctcct  721 tcagtttagt tgaggatacc acattagagc cagaagagcc accaaccaaa taccaaatct  781 ctcaaccaga agtgtacgtg gctgcgccag gggagtcgct agaggtgcgc tgcctgttga  841 aagatgccgc cgtgatcagt tggactaagg atggggtgca cttggggccc aacaatagga  901 cagtgcttat tggggagtac ttgcagataa agggcgccac gcctagagac tccggcctct  961 atgcttgtac tgccagtagg actgtagaca gtgaaacttg gtacttcatg gtgaatgtca 1021 cagatgccat ctcatccgga gatgatgagg atgacaccga tggtgcggaa gattttgtca 1081 gtgagaacag taacaacaag agagcaccat actggaccaa cacagaaaag atggaaaagc 1141 ggctccatgc tgtgcctgcg gccaacactg tcaagtttcg ctgcccagcc ggggggaacc 1201 caatgccaac catgcggtgg ctgaaaaacg ggaaggagtt taagcaggag catcgcattg 1261 gaggctacaa ggtacgaaac cagcactgga gcctcattat ggaaagtgtg gtcccatctg 1321 acaagggaaa ttatacctgt gtagtggaga atgaatacgg gtccatcaat cacacgtacc 1381 acctggatgt tgtggagcga tcgcctcacc ggcccatcct ccaagccgga ctgccggcaa 1441 atgcctccac agtggtcgga ggagacgtag agtttgtctg caaggtttac agtgatgccc 1501 agccccacat ccagtggatc aagcacgtgg aaaagaacgg cagtaaatac gggcccgacg 1561 ggctgcccta cctcaaggtt ctcaaggccg ccggtgttaa caccacggac aaagagattg 1621 aggttctcta tattcggaat gtaacttttg aggacgctgg ggaatatacg tgcttggcgg 1681 gtaattctat tgggatatcc tttcactctg catggttgac agttctgcca gcgcctggaa 1741 gagaaaagga gattacagct tccccagact acctggagat agccatttac tgcatagggg 1801 tcttcttaat cgcctgtatg gtggtaacag tcatcctgtg ccgaatgaag aacacgacca 1861 agaagccaga cttcagcagc cagccggctg tgcacaagct gaccaaacgt atccccctgc 1921 ggagacaggt aacagtttcg gctgagtcca gctcctccat gaactccaac accccgctgg 1981 tgaggataac aacacgcctc tcttcaacgg cagacacccc catgctggca ggggtctccg 2041 agtatgaact tccagaggac ccaaaatggg agtttccaag agataagctg acactgggca 2101 agcccctggg agaaggttgc tttgggcaag tggtcatggc ggaagcagtg ggaattgaca 2161 aagacaagcc caaggaggcg gtcaccgtgg ccgtgaagat gttgaaagat gatgccacag 2221 agaaagacct ttctgatctg gtgtcagaga tggagatgat gaagatgatt gggaaacaca 2281 agaatatcat aaatcttctt ggagcctgca cacaggatgg gcctctctat gtcatagttg 2341 agtatgcctc taaaggcaac ctccgagaat acctccgagc ccggaggcca cccgggatgg 2401 agtactccta tgacattaac cgtgttcctg aggagcagat gaccttcaag gacttggtgt 2461 catgcaccta ccagctggcc agaggcatgg agtacttggc ttcccaaaaa tgtattcatc 2521 gagatttagc agccagaaat gttttggtaa cagaaaacaa tgtgatgaaa atagcagact 2581 ttggactcgc cagagatatc aacaatatag actattacaa aaagaccacc aatgggcggc 2641 ttccagtcaa gtggatggct ccagaagccc tgtttgatag agtatacact catcagagtg 2701 atgtctggtc cttcggggtg ttaatgtggg agatcttcac tttagggggc tcgccctacc 2761 cagggattcc cgtggaggaa ctttttaagc tgctgaagga aggacacaga atggataagc 2821 cagccaactg caccaacgaa ctgtacatga tgatgaggga ctgttggcat gcagtgccct 2881 cccagagacc aacgttcaag cagttggtag aagacttgga tcgaattctc actctcacaa 2941 ccaatgagga atacttggac ctcagccaac ctctcgaaca gtattcacct agttaccctg 3001 acacaagaag ttcttgttct tcaggagatg attctgtttt ttctccagac cccatgcctt 3061 acgaaccatg ccttcctcag tatccacaca taaacggcag tgttaaaaca tgaatgactg 3121 tgtctgcctg tccccaaaca ggacagcact gggaacctag ctacactgag cagggagacc 3181 atgcctccca gagcttgttg tctccacttg tatatatgga tcagaggagt aaataattgg 3241 aaaagtaatc agcatatgtg taaagattta tacagttgaa aacttgtaat cttccccagg 3301 aggagaagaa ggtttctgga gcagtggact gccacaagcc accatgtaac ccctctcacc 3361 tgccgtgcgt actggctgtg gaccagtagg actcaaggtg gacgtgcgtt ctgccttcct 3421 tgttaatttt gtaataattg gagaagattt atgtcagcac acacttacag agcacaaatg 3481 cagtatatag gtgctggatg tatgtaaata tattcaaatt atgtataaat atatattata 3541 tatttacaag gagttatttt ttgtattgat tttaaatgga tgtcccaatg cacctagaaa 3601 attggtctct ctttttttaa tagctatttg ctaaatgctg ttcttacaca taatttctta 3661 attttcaccg agcagaggtg gaaaaatact tttgctttca gggaaaatgg tataacgtta 3721 atttattaat aaattggtaa tatacaaaac aattaatcat ttatagtttt ttttgtaatt 3781 taagtggcat ttctatgcag gcagcacagc agactagtta atctattgct tggacttaac 3841 tagttatcag atcctttgaa aagagaatat ttacaatata tgactaattt ggggaaaatg 3901 aagttttgat ttatttgtgt ttaaatgctg ctgtcagacg attgttctta gacctcctaa 3961 atgccccata ttaaaagaac tcattcatag gaaggtgttt cattttggtg tgcaaccctg 4021 tcattacgtc aacgcaacgt ctaactggac ttcccaagat aaatggtacc agcgtcctct 4081 taaaagatgc cttaatccat tccttgagga cagaccttag ttgaaatgat agcagaatgt 4141 gcttctctct ggcagctggc cttctgcttc tgagttgcac attaatcaga ttagcctgta 4201 ttctcttcag tgaattttga taatggcttc cagactcttt ggcgttggag acgcctgtta 4261 ggatcttcaa gtcccatcat agaaaattga aacacagagt tgttctgctg atagttttgg 4321 ggatacgtcc atctttttaa gggattgctt tcatctaatt ctggcaggac ctcaccaaaa 4381 gatccagcct catacctaca tcagacaaaa tatcgccgtt gttccttctg tactaaagta 4441 ttgtgttttg ctttggaaac acccactcac tttgcaatag ccgtgcaaga tgaatgcaga 4501 ttacactgat cttatgtgtt acaaaattgg agaaagtatt taataaaacc tgttaatttt 4561 tatactgaca ataaaaatgt ttctacagat attaatgtta acaagacaaa ataaatgtca 4621 cgcaacttat ttttttaata aaaaaaaaaa aaaa

The Genbank ID for the TACC2 gene is 10579. Four isoforms are listed for TACC2, e.g., having Genebank Accession Nos. NP_996744 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_206862); NP_996743 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_206861); NP_996742 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_206860); NP_008928 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_006997).

SEQ ID NO: 154 is the TACC2 Amino Acid Sequence for isoform a, having Genebank Accession No. NP_996744 (2948 aa):

   1 MGNENSTSDN QRTLSAQTPR SAQPPGNSQN IKRKQQDTPG SPDHRDASSI GSVGLGGFCT   61 ASESSASLDP CLVSPEVTEP RKDPQGARGP EGSLLPSPPP SQEREHPSSS MPFAECPPEG  121 CLASPAAAPE DGPQTQSPRR EPAPNAPGDI AAAFPAERDS STPYQEIAAV PSAGRERQPK  181 EEGQKSSFSF SSGIDQSPGM SPVPLREPMK APLCGEGDQP GGFESQEKEA AGGFPPAESR  241 QGVASVQVTP EAPAAAQQGT ESSAVLEKSP LKPMAPIPQD PAPRASDRER GQGEAPPQYL  301 TDDLEFLRAC HLPRSNSGAA PEAEVNAASQ ESCQQPVGAY LPHAELPWGL PSPALVPEAG  361 GSGKEALDTI DVQGHPQTGM RGTKPNQVVC VAAGGQPEGG LPVSPEPSLL TPTEEAHPAS  421 SLASFPAAQI PIAVEEPGSS SRESVSKAGM PVSADAAKEV VDAGLVGLER QVSDLGSKGE  481 HPEGDPGEVP APSPQERGEH LNTEQSHEVQ PGVPPPPLPK EQSHEVQPGA PPPPLPKAPS  541 ESARGPPGPT DGAKVHEDST SPAVAKEGSR SPGDSPGGKE EAPEPPDGGD PGNLQGEDSQ  601 AFSSKRDPEV GKDELSKPSS DAESRDHPSS HSAQPPRKGG AGHTDGPHSQ TAEADASGLP  661 HKLGEEDPVL PPVPDGAGEP TVPEGAIWEG SGLQPKCPDT LQSREGLGRM ESFLTLESEK  721 SDFPPTPVAE VAPKAQEGES TLEIRKMGSC DGEGLLTSPD QPRGPACDAS RQEFHAGVPH  781 PPQGENLAAD LGLTALILDQ DQQGIPSCPG EGWIRGAASE WPLLSSEKHL QPSQAQPETS  841 IFDVLKEQAQ PPENGKETSP SHPGFKDQGA DSSQIHVPVE PQEDNNLPTH GGQEQALGSE  901 LQSQLPKGTL SDTPTSSPTD MVWESSLTEE SELSAPTRQK LPALGEKRPE GACGDGQSSR  961 VSPPAADVLK DFSLAGNFSR KETCCTGQGP NKSQQALADA LEEGSQHEEA CQRHPGASEA 1021 ADGCSPLWGL SKREMASGNT GEAPPCQPDS VALLDAVPCL PALAPASPGV TPTQDAPETE 1081 ACDETQEGRQ QPVPAPQQKM ECWATSDAES PKLLASFPSA GEQGGEAGAA ETGGSAGAGD 1141 PGKQQAPEKP GEATLSCGLL QTEHCLTSGE EASTSALRES CQAEHPMASC QDALLPAREL 1201 GGIPRSTMDF STHQAVPDPK ELLLSGPPEV AAPDTPYLHV DSAAQRGAED SGVKAVSSAD 1261 PRAPGESPCP VGEPPLALEN AASLKLFAGS LAPLLQPGAA GGEIPAVQAS SGSPKARTTE 1321 GPVDSMPCLD RMPLLAKGKQ ATGEEKAATA PGAGAKASGE GMAGDAAGET EGSMERMGEP 1381 SQDPKQGTSG GVDTSSEQIA TLTGFPDFRE HIAKIFEKPV LGALATPGEK AGAGRSAVGK 1441 DLTRPLGPEK LLDGPPGVDV TLLPAPPARL QVEKKQQLAG EAEISHLALQ DPASDKLLGP 1501 AGLTWERNLP GAGVGKEMAG VPPTLREDER PEGPGAAWPG LEGQAYSQLE RSRQELASGL 1561 PSPAATQELP VERAAAFQVA PHSHGEEAVA QDRIPSGKQH QETSACDSPH GEDGPGDFAH 1621 TGVPGHVPRS TCAPSPQREV LTVPEANSEP WTLDTLGGER RPGVTAGILE MRNALGNQST 1681 PAPPTGEVAD TPLEPGKVAG AAGEAEGDIT LSTAETQACA SGDLPEAGTT RTFSVVAGDL 1741 VLPGSCQDPA CSDKAPGMEG TAALHGDSPA RPQQAKEQPG PERPIPAGDG KVCVSSPPEP 1801 DETHDPKLQH LAPEELHTDR ESPRPGPSML PSVPKKDAPR VMDKVTSDET RGAEGTESSP 1861 VADDIIQPAA PADLESPTLA ASSYHGDVVG QVSTDLIAQS ISPAAAHAGL PPSAAEHIVS 1921 PSAPAGDRVE ASTPSCPDPA KDLSRSSDSE EAFETPESTT PVKAPPAPPP PPPEVIPEPE 1981 VSTQPPPEEP GCGSETVPVP DGPRSDSVEG SPFRPPSHSF SAVFDEDKPI ASSGTYNLDF 2041 DNIELVDTFQ TLEPRASDAK NQEGKVNTRR KSTDSVPISK STLSRSLSLQ ASDFDGASSS 2101 GNPEAVALAP DAYSTGSSSA SSTLKRTKKP RPPSLKKKQT TKKPTETPPV KETQQEPDEE 2161 SLVPSGENLA SETKTESAKT EGPSPALLEE TPLEPAVGPK AACPLDSESA EGVVPPASGG 2221 GRVQNSPPVG RKTLPLTTAP EAGEVTPSDS GGQEDSPAKG LSVRLEFDYS EDKSSWDNQQ 2281 ENPPPTKKIG KKPVAKMPLR RPKMKKTPEK LDNTPASPPR SPAEPNDIPI AKGTYTFDID 2341 KWDDPNFNPF SSTSKMQESP KLPQQSYNFD PDTCDESVDP FKTSSKTPSS PSKSPASFEI 2401 PASAMEANGV DGDGLNKPAK KKKTPLKTDT FRVKKSPKRS PLSDPPSQDP TPAATPETPP 2461 VISAVVHATD EEKLAVTNQK WTCMTVDLEA DKQDYPQPSD LSTFVNETKF SSPTEELDYR 2521 NSYEIEYMEK IGSSLPQDDD APKKQALYLM FDTSQESPVK SSPVRMSESP TPCSGSSFEE 2581 TEALVNTAAK NQHPVPRGLA PNQESHLQVP EKSSQKELEA MGLGTPSEAI EITAPEGSFA 2641 SADALLSRLA HPVSLCGALD YLEPDLAEKN PPLFAQKLQE ELEFAIMRIE ALKLARQIAL 2701 ASRSHQDAKR EAAHPTDVSI SKTALYSRIG TAEVEKPAGL LFQQPDLDSA LQIARAEIIT 2761 KEREVSEWKD KYEESRREVM EMRKIVAEYE KTIAQMIEDE QREKSVSHQT VQQLVLEKEQ 2821 ALADLNSVEK SLADLFRRYE KMKEVLEGFR KNEEVLKRCA QEYLSRVKKE EQRYQALKVH 2881 AEEKLDRANA EIAQVRGKAQ QEQAAHQASL RKEQLRVDAL ERTLEQKNKE IEELTKICDE 2941 LIAKMGKS

SEQ ID NO: 155 is the TACC2 Nucleotide Sequence for isoform a, having Genebank Accession No. NM_206862 (9706 bp)

   1 gcctgctcca agggaaggat caggagagaa gaaacgcaaa tcccagaacc gtgccaacat   61 ataaaacccc acattaaggg ttgtacagtg cactgggatt tctcaagtca cccgcttggt  121 cctcttccaa gtatacttta cttcctttca ttcctctcta aaactttttt aaaaactttc  181 actcctgctc taaaagttat cttggtttct tactctacct tatgcccctt gggcgaattt  241 tttcctctga ggagggaaga atagagttgc tgctgcagac acatcagatt ccctactggt  301 aacagctgga gtgcgtcacc tctgacaaaa ttctggggac gctgggaaca ctgaatcaac  361 atgggcaatg agaacagcac ctcggacaac cagaggactt tatcagctca gactccaagg  421 tccgcgcagc cacccgggaa cagtcagaat ataaaaagga agcagcagga cacgcccgga  481 agccctgacc acagagacgc gtccagcatt ggcagcgttg ggcttggagg cttctgcacc  541 gcttctgaga gttctgccag cctggatcca tgccttgtgt ccccagaggt gactgagcca  601 aggaaggacc cacagggagc cagggggcca gaaggttctt tgctgcccag cccaccaccg  661 tcccaggagc gagagcaccc ctcgtcctcc atgccctttg ccgagtgtcc cccggaaggt  721 tgcttggcaa gtccagcagc ggcacctgaa gatggtcctc agactcagtc tcccaggagg  781 gaacctgccc caaatgcccc aggagacatc gcggcggcat ttcccgctga gagggacagc  841 tctactccat accaagagat tgctgccgtc cccagtgctg gaagagagag acagccgaag  901 gaagaaggac agaagtcctc cttctccttc tccagtggca tcgaccagtc acctggaatg  961 tcgccagtac ccctcagaga gccaatgaag gcaccgctgt gtggagaggg ggaccagcct 1021 ggtggttttg agtcccaaga gaaagaggct gcaggtggct ttccccctgc agagtccagg 1081 cagggggtgg cttctgtgca agtgacccct gaggcccctg ctgcagccca gcagggcaca 1141 gaaagctcag cggtcttgga gaagtccccc ctaaaaccca tggccccgat cccacaagat 1201 ccagccccaa gagcctcaga cagagaaaga ggccaagggg aggcgccgcc tcagtattta 1261 acagatgact tggaattcct cagggcctgc catctcccta ggagcaattc aggggctgcc 1321 ccagaagcag aagtgaatgc cgcttcccag gagagctgcc agcagccagt gggagcatat 1381 ctgccgcacg cagagctgcc ctggggcttg ccaagtcctg ccctggtgcc agaggctggg 1441 ggctctggga aggaggctct ggacaccatt gatgttcagg gtcacccaca gacagggatg 1501 cgaggaacca agcccaatca agttgtctgt gtggcagcag gcggccagcc cgaagggggt 1561 ttgcctgtga gccctgaacc ttccctgctc actccgactg aggaagcaca tccagcttca 1621 agcctcgctt cattcccagc tgctcagatt cctattgctg tagaagaacc tggatcatca 1681 tccagggaat cagtttccaa ggctgggatg ccagtttctg cagatgcagc caaagaggtg 1741 gtggatgcag ggttggtggg actggagagg caggtgtcag atcttggaag caagggagag 1801 catccagaag gggaccctgg agaggttcct gccccatcac cccaggagag gggagagcac 1861 ttgaacacgg agcaaagcca tgaggtccaa ccaggagtac caccccctcc tcttcccaag 1921 gagcaaagcc atgaggtcca accaggagca ccaccccctc ctcttcccaa ggcaccaagt 1981 gaaagtgcca gagggccacc ggggccaacg gatggagcca aggtccatga agattccaca 2041 agcccagccg tggctaaaga aggaagcaga tcacctggtg acagccctgg aggaaaggag 2101 gaagccccag agccacctga tggtggagac ccagggaacc tgcaaggaga ggactctcag 2161 gctttcagca gcaagcgtga tccagaagta ggcaaagatg agctttcaaa gccaagcagt 2221 gatgcagaga gcagagacca tcccagctca cactcagcac agccacccag aaaggggggt 2281 gctgggcaca cggacgggcc ccactctcag acagcagagg ctgatgcatc tggcctacca 2341 cacaagctgg gtgaggagga ccccgtcctg ccccctgtgc cagatggagc tggtgagccc 2401 actgttcccg aaggagccat ctgggagggg tcaggattgc agcccaaatg tcctgacacc 2461 cttcagagca gggaaggatt gggaagaatg gagtctttcc tgactttaga atcagagaaa 2521 tcagattttc caccaactcc tgttgcagag gttgcaccca aagcccagga aggtgagagc 2581 acattggaaa taaggaagat gggcagctgt gatggggagg gcttgctgac gtccccagat 2641 caaccccgcg ggccggcgtg tgatgcgtcg agacaggaat ttcatgctgg ggtgccacat 2701 cccccccagg gggagaactt ggcagcagac ctggggctca cggcactcat cctggaccaa 2761 gatcagcagg gaatcccatc ctgcccaggg gaaggctgga taagaggagc tgcatccgag 2821 tggcccctac tatcttctga gaagcatctc cagccatccc aggcacaacc agagacatcc 2881 atctttgacg tgctcaagga gcaggcccag ccacctgaaa atgggaaaga gacttctcca 2941 agccatccag gttttaagga ccagggagca gattcttccc aaatccatgt acctgtggaa 3001 cctcaggaag ataacaactt gcccactcat ggaggacagg agcaggcttt gggatcagaa 3061 cttcaaagtc agctccccaa aggcaccctg tctgatactc caacttcatc tcccactgac 3121 atggtttggg agagttctct gacagaagag tcagaattgt cagcaccaac gagacagaag 3181 ttgcctgcac taggggagaa gcggccagag ggagcatgcg gtgatggtca gtcctcgagg 3241 gtctcgcctc cagcagcaga tgtcttaaaa gacttttctc ttgcagggaa cttcagcaga 3301 aaggaaactt gctgcactgg gcaggggcca aacaagtctc aacaggcatt ggctgatgcc 3361 ttggaagaag gcagccagca tgaagaagca tgtcaaaggc atccaggagc ttctgaagca 3421 gctgatggtt gttccccact ctggggcttg agtaagaggg agatggcaag tggaaacaca 3481 ggggaggccc caccttgtca gcctgactca gtagctctcc tggatgcagt tccctgcctg 3541 ccagccctgg cgcccgccag ccccggagtc acacccaccc aggatgcccc agagacagag 3601 gcatgtgatg aaacccagga aggcaggcag caaccagtgc cggccccgca gcagaaaatg 3661 gagtgctggg ccacttcgga tgcagagtcc ccaaagcttc ttgcaagttt cccatcagct 3721 ggggagcaag gtggtgaagc cggggctgct gagactggtg gcagcgctgg tgcaggagac 3781 ccaggaaagc agcaggctcc ggagaaacct ggagaagcta ctttgagttg tggcctcctt 3841 cagactgagc actgccttac ctccggggag gaagcttcta cctctgccct acgtgagtcc 3901 tgccaagctg agcaccccat ggccagctgc caggatgcct tgctgccagc cagagagctg 3961 ggtgggattc ccaggagcac catggatttt tctacacacc aggctgtccc agacccaaag 4021 gagctcctgc tgtctgggcc accagaagtg gctgctcctg acacccctta cctgcatgtc 4081 gacagtgctg cccagagagg agcagaagac agtggagtga aagctgtttc ctctgcagac 4141 cccagagctc ctggcgaaag cccctgtcct gtaggggagc ccccacttgc cttggaaaat 4201 gctgcctcct tgaagctgtt tgctggctcc ctcgcccccc tgttgcaacc aggagctgca 4261 ggtggggaaa tccctgcagt gcaagccagc agtggtagtc ccaaagccag aaccactgag 4321 ggaccagtgg actccatgcc atgcctggac cggatgccac ttctggccaa gggcaagcag 4381 gcaacagggg aagagaaagc agcaacagct ccaggtgcag gtgccaaggc cagtggggag 4441 ggcatggcag gtgatgcagc aggagagaca gagggcagca tggagaggat gggagagcct 4501 tcccaggacc caaagcaggg cacatcaggt ggtgtggaca caagctctga gcaaatcgcc 4561 accctcactg gcttcccaga cttcagggag cacatcgcca agatcttcga gaagcctgtg 4621 ctcggagccc tggccacacc tggagaaaag gcaggagctg ggaggagtgc agtgggtaaa 4681 gacctcacca ggccattggg cccagagaag cttctagatg ggcctccagg agtggatgtc 4741 acccttctcc ctgcacctcc tgctcgactc caggtggaga agaagcaaca gttggctgga 4801 gaggctgaga tttcccatct ggctctgcaa gatccagctt cagacaagct tctgggtcca 4861 gcagggctga cctgggagcg gaacttgcca ggtgccggtg tggggaagga gatggcaggt 4921 gtcccaccca cactgaggga agacgagagg ccagaggggc ctggggcagc ctggccaggc 4981 ctggaaggcc aggcttactc acagctggag aggagcaggc aggaattagc ttcaggtctt 5041 ccttcaccag cagctactca ggagctccct gtggagagag ctgctgcctt ccaggtggct 5101 ccccatagcc atggagaaga ggccgtggcc caagacagaa ttccttctgg aaagcagcac 5161 caggaaacat ctgcctgcga cagtccacat ggagaagatg gtcccgggga ctttgctcac 5221 acaggggttc caggacatgt gccaaggtcc acgtgtgccc cttctcctca gagggaggtt 5281 ttgactgtgc ctgaggccaa cagtgagccc tggacccttg acacgcttgg gggtgaaagg 5341 agacccggag tcactgctgg catcttggaa atgcgaaatg ccctgggcaa ccagagcacc 5401 cctgcaccac caactggaga agtggcagac actcccctgg agcctggcaa ggtggcaggc 5461 gctgctgggg aagcagaggg tgacatcacc ctgagcacag ctgagacaca ggcatgtgcg 5521 tccggtgatc tgcctgaagc aggtactacg aggacattct ccgttgtggc aggtgacttg 5581 gtgctgccag gaagctgtca ggacccagcc tgctctgaca aggctccggg gatggagggt 5641 acagctgccc ttcatgggga cagcccagcc aggccccagc aggctaagga gcagccaggg 5701 cctgagcgcc ccattccagc tggggatggg aaggtgtgcg tctcctcacc tccagagcct 5761 gacgaaactc acgacccgaa gctgcaacat ttggctccag aagagctcca cactgacaga 5821 gagagcccca ggcctggccc atccatgtta ccttcggttc ctaagaagga tgctccaaga 5881 gtcatggata aagtcacttc agatgagacc agaggtgcgg aaggaacaga aagttcacct 5941 gtggcagatg atatcatcca gcccgctgcc cccgcagacc tggaaagccc aaccttagct 6001 gcctcttcct accacggtga tgttgttggc caggtctcta cggatctgat agcccagagc 6061 atctccccag ctgctgccca tgcgggtctt cctccctcgg ctgcagaaca catagtttcg 6121 ccatctgccc cagctggtga cagagtagaa gcttccactc cctcctgccc agatccggcc 6181 aaggacctca gcaggagttc cgattctgaa gaggcatttg agaccccgga gtcaacgacc 6241 cctgtcaaag ctccgccagc tccaccccca ccaccccccg aagtcatccc agaacccgag 6301 gtcagcacac agccaccccc ggaagaacca ggatgtggtt ctgagacagt ccctgtccct 6361 gatggcccac ggagcgactc ggtggaagga agtcccttcc gtcccccgtc acactccttc 6421 tctgccgtct tcgatgaaga caagccgata gccagcagtg ggacttacaa cttggacttt 6481 gacaacattg agcttgtgga tacctttcag accttggagc ctcgtgcctc agacgctaag 6541 aatcaggagg gcaaagtgaa cacacggagg aagtccacgg attccgtccc catctctaag 6601 tctacactgt cccggtcgct cagcctgcaa gccagtgact ttgatggtgc ttcttcctca 6661 ggcaatcccg aggccgtggc ccttgcccca gatgcatata gcacgggttc cagcagtgct 6721 tctagtaccc ttaagcgaac taaaaaaccg aggccgcctt ccttaaaaaa gaaacagacc 6781 accaagaaac ccacagagac ccccccagtg aaggagacgc aacaggagcc agatgaagag 6841 agccttgtcc ccagtgggga gaatctagca tctgagacga aaacggaatc tgccaagacg 6901 gaaggtccta gcccagcctt attggaggag acgccccttg agcccgctgt ggggcccaaa 6961 gctgcctgcc ctctggactc agagagtgca gaaggggttg tccccccggc ttctggaggt 7021 ggcagagtgc agaactcacc ccctgtcggg aggaaaacgc tgcctcttac cacggccccg 7081 gaggcagggg aggtaacccc atcggatagc ggggggcaag aggactctcc agccaaaggg 7141 ctctccgtaa ggctggagtt tgactattct gaggacaaga gtagttggga caaccagcag 7201 gaaaaccccc ctcctaccaa aaagataggc aaaaagccag ttgccaaaat gcccctgagg 7261 aggccaaaga tgaaaaagac acccgagaaa cttgacaaca ctcctgcctc acctcccaga 7321 tcccctgctg aacccaatga catccccatt gctaaaggta cttacacctt tgatattgac 7381 aagtgggatg accccaattt taaccctttt tcttccacct caaaaatgca ggagtctccc 7441 aaactgcccc aacaatcata caactttgac ccagacacct gtgatgagtc cgttgacccc 7501 tttaagacat cctctaagac ccccagctca ccttctaaat ccccagcctc ctttgagatc 7561 ccagccagtg ctatggaagc caatggagtg gacggggatg ggctaaacaa gcccgccaag 7621 aagaagaaga cgcccctaaa gactgacaca tttagggtga aaaagtcgcc aaaacggtct 7681 cctctctctg atccaccttc ccaggacccc accccagctg ctacaccaga aacaccacca 7741 gtgatctctg cggtggtcca cgccacagat gaggaaaagc tggcggtcac caaccagaag 7801 tggacgtgca tgacagtgga cctagaggct gacaaacagg actacccgca gccctcggac 7861 ctgtccacct ttgtaaacga gaccaaattc agttcaccca ctgaggagtt ggattacaga 7921 aactcctatg aaattgaata tatggagaaa attggctcct ccttacctca ggacgacgat 7981 gccccgaaga agcaggcctt gtaccttatg tttgacactt ctcaggagag ccctgtcaag 8041 tcatctcccg tccgcatgtc agagtccccg acgccgtgtt cagggtcaag ttttgaagag 8101 actgaagccc ttgtgaacac tgctgcgaaa aaccagcatc ctgtcccacg aggactggcc 8161 cctaaccaag agtcacactt gcaggtgcca gagaaatcct cccagaagga gctggaggcc 8221 atgggcttgg gcaccccttc agaagcgatt gaaattacag ctcccgaggg ctcctttgcc 8281 tctgctgacg ccctcctcag caggctagct caccccgtct ctctctgtgg tgcacttgac 8341 tatctggagc ccgacttagc agaaaagaac cccccactat tcgctcagaa actccaggag 8401 gagttagagt ttgccatcat gcggatagaa gccctgaagc tggccaggca gattgctttg 8461 gcttcccgca gccaccagga tgccaagaga gaggctgctc acccaacaga cgtctccatc 8521 tccaaaacag ccttgtactc ccgcatcggg accgctgagg tggagaaacc tgcaggcctt 8581 ctgttccagc agcccgacct ggactctgcc ctccagatcg ccagagcaga gatcataacc 8641 aaggagagag aggtctcaga atggaaagat aaatatgaag aaagcaggcg ggaagtgatg 8701 gaaatgagga aaatagtggc cgagtatgag aagaccatcg ctcagatgat agaggacgaa 8761 cagagagaga agtcagtctc ccaccagacg gtgcagcagc tggttctgga gaaggagcaa 8821 gccctggccg acctgaactc cgtggagaag tctctggccg acctcttcag aagatatgag 8881 aagatgaagg aggtcctaga aggcttccgc aagaatgaag aggtgttgaa gagatgtgcg 8941 caggagtacc tgtcccgggt gaagaaggag gagcagaggt accaggccct gaaggtgcac 9001 gcggaggaga aactggacag ggccaatgct gagattgctc aggttcgagg caaggcccag 9061 caggagcaag ccgcccacca ggccagcctg cggaaggagc agctgcgagt ggacgccctg 9121 gaaaggacgc tggagcagaa gaataaagaa atagaagaac tcaccaagat ttgtgacgaa 9181 ctgattgcca aaatggggaa aagctaactc tgaaccgaat gttttggact taactgttgc 9241 gtgcaatatg accgtcggca cactgctgtt cctccagttc catggacagg ttctgttttc 9301 actttttcgt atgcactact gtatttcctt tctaaataaa attgatttga ttgtatgcag 9361 tactaaggag actatcagaa tttcttgcta ttggtttgca ttttcctagt ataattcata 9421 gcaagttgac ctcagagttc ctgtatcagg gagattgtct gattctctaa taaaagacac 9481 attgctgacc ttggccttgc cctttgtaca caagttccca gggtgagcag cttttggatt 9541 taatatgaac atgtacagcg tgcataggga ctcttgcctt aaggagtgta aacttgatct 9601 gcatttgctg atttgttttt aaaaaaacaa gaaatgcatg tttcaaataa aattctctat 9661 tgtaaataaa attttttctt tggatcttgg caaaaaaaaa aaaaaa

SEQ ID NO: 158 is the amino acid sequence of the FGFR3-TACC3-1 fusion protein. The bolded text corresponds to the FGFR3 protein:

MGAPACALALCVAVAIVAGASSESLGTEQRVVGRAAEVPGPEPGQQEQLVF GSGDAVELSCPPPGGGPMGPTVWVKDGTGLVPSERVLVGPQRLQVLNASHE DSGAYSCRQRLTQRVLCHFSVRVTDAPSSGDDEDGEDEAEDTGVDTGAPYW TRPERMDKKLLAVPAANTVRFRCPAAGNPTPSISWLKNGREFRGEHRIGGI KLRHQQWSLVMESVVPSDRGNYTCVVENKFGSIRQTYTLDVLERSPHRPIL QAGLPANQTAVLGSDVEFHCKVYSDAQPHIQWLKHVEVNGSKVGPDGTPYV TVLKTAGANTTDKELEVLSLHNVTFEDAGEYTCLAGNSIGESHHSAWLVVL PAEEELVEADEAGSVYAGILSYGVGFFLFILVVAAVTLCRLRSPPKKGLGS PTVHKISRFPLKRQVSLESNASMSSNTPLVRIARLSSGEGPTLANVSELEL PADPKWELSRARLTLGKPLGEGCFGQVVMAEAIGIDKDRAAKPVTVAVKML KDDATDKDLSDLVSEMENMKMIGKHKNIINLLGACTQGGPLYVLVEYAAKG NLREFLRARRPPGLDYSFDTCKPPEEQLTFKDLVSCAYQVARGMEYLASQK CIHRDLAARNVLVTEDNVMKIADFGLARDVHNLDYYKKTTNGRLPVKWMAP EALFDRVYTHQSDVWSFGVLLWEIFTLGGSPYPGIPVEELFKLLKEGHRMD KPANCTHDLYMIMRECWHAAPSQRPTFKQLVEDLDRVLTVTSTDFKESALR KQSLYLKFDPLLRDSPGRPVPVATETSSMHGANETPSGRPREAKLVEFDFL GALDIPVPGPPPGVPAPGGPPLSTGPIVDLLQYSQKDLDAVVKATQEENRE LRSRCEELHGKNLELGKIMDRFEEVVYQAMEEVQKQKELSKAEIQKVLKEK DQLTTDLNSMEKSFSDLFKRFEKQKEVIEGYRKNEESLKKCVEDYLARITQ EGQRYQALKAHAEEKLQLANEEIAQVRSKAQAEALALQASLRKEQMRIQSL EKTVEQKTKENEELTRICDDLISKMEKI

SEQ ID NO: 159 is the amino acid sequence of the FGFR3-TACC3-2 fusion protein. The bolded text corresponds to the FGFR3 protein:

MGAPACALALCVAVAIVAGASSESLGTEQRVVGRAAEVPGPEPGQQEQLVF GSGDAVELSCPPPGGGPMGPTVWVKDGTGLVPSERVLVGPQRLQVLNASHE DSGAYSCRQRLTQRVLCHFSVRVTDAPSSGDDEDGEDEAEDTGVDTGAPYW TRPERMDKKLLAVPAANTVRFRCPAAGNPTPSISWLKNGREFRGEHRIGGI KLRHQQWSLVMESVVPSDRGNYTCVVENKFGSIRQTYTLDVLERSPHRPIL QAGLPANQTAVLGSDVEFHCKVYSDAQPHIQWLKHVEVNGSKVGPDGTPYV TVLKTAGANTTDKELEVLSLHNVTFEDAGEYTCLAGNSIGESHHSAWLVVL PAEEELVEADEAGSVYAGILSYGVGFFLFILVVAAVTLCRLRSPPKKGLGS PTVHKISRFPLKRQVSLESNASMSSNTPLVRIARLSSGEGPTLANVSELEL PADPKWELSRARLTLGKPLGEGCFGQVVMAEAIGIDKDRAAKPVTVAVKML KDDATDKDLSDLVSEMENMKMIGKHKNIINLLGACTQGGPLYVLVEYAAKG NLREFLRARRPPGLDYSFDTCKPPEEQLTFKDLVSCAYQVARGMEYLASQK CIHRDLAARNVLVTEDNVMKIADFGLARDVHNLDYYKKTTNGRLPVKWMAP EALFDRVYTHQSDVWSFGVLLWEIFTLGGSPYPGIPVEELFKLLKEGHRMD KPANCTHDLYMIMRECWHAAPSQRPTFKQLVEDLDRVLTVTSTDVSAGSGL VPPAYAPPPAVPGHPSGRPREAKLVEFDFLGALDIPVPGPPPGVPAPGGPP LSTGPIVDLLQYSQKDLDAVVKATQEENRELRSRCEELHGKNLELGKIMDR FEEVVYQAMEEVQKQKELSKAEIQKVLKEKDQLTTDLNSMEKSFSDLFKRF EKQKEVIEGYRKNEESLKKCVEDYLARITQEGQRYQALKAHAEEKLQLANE EIAQVRSKAQAEALALQASLRKEQMRIQSLEKTVEQKTKENEELTRICDDL ISKMEKI

SEQ ID NO: 160 is the amino acid sequence of the FGFR3-TACC3-3 fusion protein. The bolded text corresponds to the FGFR3 protein:

MGAPACALALCVAVAIVAGASSESLGTEQRVVGRAAEVPGPEPGQQEQLVF GSGDAVELSCPPPGGGPMGPTVWVKDGTGLVPSERVLVGPQRLQVLNASHE DSGAYSCRQRLTQRVLCHFSVRVTDAPSSGDDEDGEDEAEDTGVDTGAPYW TRPERMDKKLLAVPAANTVRFRCPAAGNPTPSISWLKNGREFRGEHRIGGI KLRHQQWSLVMESVVPSDRGNYTCVVENKFGSIRQTYTLDVLERSPHRPIL QAGLPANQTAVLGSDVEFHCKVYSDAQPHIQWLKHVEVNGSKVGPDGTPYV TVLKTAGANTTDKELEVLSLHNVTFEDAGEYTCLAGNSIGESHHSAWLVVL PAEEELVEADEAGSVYAGILSYGVGFFLFILVVAAVTLCRLRSPPKKGLGS PTVHKISRFPLKRQVSLESNASMSSNTPLVRIARLSSGEGPTLANVSELEL PADPKWELSRARLTLGKPLGEGCFGQVVMAEAIGIDKDRAAKPVTVAVKML KDDATDKDLSDLVSEMENMKMIGKHKNIINLLGACTQGGPLYVLVEYAAKG NLREFLRARRPPGLDYSFDTCKPPEEQLTFKDLVSCAYQVARGMEYLASQK CIHRDLAARNVLVTEDNVMKIADFGLARDVHNLDYYKKTTNGRLPVKWMAP EALFDRVYTHQSDVWSFGVLLWEIFTLGGSPYPGIPVEELFKLLKEGHRMD KPANCTHDLYMIMRECWHAAPSQRPTFKQLVEDLDRVLTVTSTDVPGPPPG VPAPGGPPLSTGPIVDLLQYSQKDLDAVVKATQEENRELRSRCEELHGKNL ELGKIMDRFEEVVYQAMEEVQKQKELSKAEIQKVLKEKDQLTTDLNSMEKS FSDLFKRFEKQKEVIEGYRKNEESLKKCVEDYLARITQEGQRYQALKAHAE EKLQLANEEIAQVRSKAQAEALALQASLRKEQMRIQSLEKTVEQKTKENEE LTRICDDLISKMEKI

SEQ ID NO: 161 is the amino acid sequence of the FGFR3-TACC3-4 fusion protein. The bolded text corresponds to the FGFR3 protein:

MGAPACALALCVAVAIVAGASSESLGTEQRVVGRAAEVPGPEPGQQEQLVF GSGDAVELSCPPPGGGPMGPTVWVKDGTGLVPSERVLVGPQRLQVLNASHE DSGAYSCRQRLTQRVLCHFSVRVTDAPSSGDDEDGEDEAEDTGVDTGAPYW TRPERMDKKLLAVPAANTVRFRCPAAGNPTPSISWLKNGREFRGEHRIGGI KLRHQQWSLVMESVVPSDRGNYTCVVENKFGSIRQTYTLDVLERSPHRPIL QAGLPANQTAVLGSDVEFHCKVYSDAQPHIQWLKHVEVNGSKVGPDGTPYV TVLKTAGANTTDKELEVLSLHNVTFEDAGEYTCLAGNSIGESHHSAWLVVL PAEEELVEADEAGSVYAGILSYGVGFFLFILVVAAVTLCRLRSPPKKGLGS PTVHKISRFPLKRQVSLESNASMSSNTPLVRIARLSSGEGPTLANVSELEL PADPKWELSRARLTLGKPLGEGCFGQVVMAEAIGIDKDRAAKPVTVAVKML KDDATDKDLSDLVSEMEMMKMIGKHKNIINLLGACTQGGPLYVLVEYAAKG NLREFLRARRPPGLDYSFDTCKPPEEQLTFKDLVSCAYQVARGMEYLASQK CIHRDLAARNVLVTEDNVMKIADFGLARDVHNLDYYKKTTNGRLPVKWMAP EALFDRVYTHQSDVWSFGVLLWEIFTLGGSPYPGIPVEELFKLLKEGHRMD KPANCTHDLYMIMRECWHAAPSQRPTFKQLVEDLDRVLTVTSTDVKATQEE NRELRSRCEELHGKNLELGKIMDRFEEVVYQAMEEVQKQKELSKAEIQKVL KEKDQLTTDLNSMEKSFSDLFKRFEKQKEVIEGYRKNEESLKKCVEDYLAR ITQEGQRYQALKAHAEEKLQLANEEIAQVRSKAQAEALALQASLRKEQMRI VQSLEKTEQKTKENEELTRICDDLISKMEKI

SEQ ID NO: 539 is the amino acid sequence of FGFR3ex17-TACC3ex11. The sequence corresponding to FGFR3 is underlined. The sequence corresponding to TACC3 is italicized:

MGAPACALALCVAVAIVAGASSESLGTEQRVVGRAAEVPGPEPGQQEQLVF GSGDAVELSCPPPGGGPMGPTVWVKDGTGLVPSERVLVGPQRLQVLNASHE DSGAYSCRQRLTQRVLCHFSVRVTDAPSSGDDEDGEDEAEDTGVDTGAPYW TRPERMDKKLLAVPAANTVRFRCPAAGNPTPSISWLKNGREFRGEHRIGGI KLRHQQWSLVMESVVPSDRGNYTCVVENKFGSIRQTYTLDVLERSPHRPIL QAGLPANQTAVLGSDVEFHCKVYSDAQPHIQWLKHVEVNGSKVGPDGTPYV TVLKTAGANTTDKELEVLSLHNVTFEDAGEYTCLAGNSIGFSHHSAWLVVL PAEEELVEADEAGSVYAGILSYGVGFFLFILVVAAVTLCRLRSPPKKGLGS PTVHKISRFPLKRQVSLESNASMSSNTPLVRIARLSSGEGPTLANVSELEL PADPKWELSRARLTLGKPLGEGCFGQVVMAEAIGIDKDRAAKPVTVAVKML KDDATDKDLSDLVSEMEMMKMIGKHKNIINLLGACTQGGPLYVLVEYAAKG NLREFLRARRPPGLDYSFDTCKPPEEQLTFKDLVSCAYQVARGMEYLASQK CIHRDLAARNVLVTEDNVMKIADFGLARDVHNLDYYKKTTNGRLPVKWMAP EALFDRVYTHQSDVWSFGVLLWEIFTLGGSPYPGIPVEELFKLLKEGHRMD KPANCTHDLYMIMRECWHAAPSQRPTFKQLVEDLDRVLTVTSTD VKATQEE NRELRSRCEELHGKNLELGKIMDRFEEVVYQAMEEVQKQKELSKAEIQKVL KEKDQLTTDLNSMEKSFSDLFKRFEKQKEVIEGYRKNEESLKKCVEDYLAR ITQEGQRYQALKAHAEEKLQLANEEIAQVRSKAQAEALALQASLRKEQMRI QSLEKTVEQKTKENEELTRICDDLISKMEKI

SEQ ID NO: 540 is the amino acid sequence of FGFR3ex17-TACC3ex8. The sequence corresponding to FGFR3 is underlined. The sequence corresponding to TACC3 is italicized:

MGAPACALALCVAVAIVAGASSESLGTEQRVVGRAAEVPGPEPGQQEQLVF GSGDAVELSCPPPGGGPMGPTVWVKDGTGLVPSERVLVGPQRLQVLNASHE DSGAYSCRQRLTQRVLCHFSVRVTDAPSSGDDEDGEDEAEDTGVDTGAPYW TRPERMDKKLLAVPAANTVRFRCPAAGNPTPSISWLKNGREFRGEHRIGGI KLRHQQWSLVMESVVPSDRGNYTCVVENKFGSIRQTYTLDVLERSPHRPIL QAGLPANQTAVLGSDVEFHCKVYSDAQPHIQWLKHVEVNGSKVGPDGTPYV TVLKTAGANTTDKELEVLSLHNVTFEDAGEYTCLAGNSIGFSHHSAWLVVL PAEEELVEADEAGSVYAGILSYGVGFFLFILVVAAVTLCRLRSPPKKGLGS PTVHKISRFPLKRQVSLESNASMSSNTPLVRIARLSSGEGPTLANVSELEL PADPKWELSRARLTLGKPLGEGCFGQVVMAEAIGIDKDRAAKPVTVAVKML KDDATDKDLSDLVSEMEMMKMIGKHKNIINLLGACTQGGPLYVLVEYAAKG NLREFLRARRPPGLDYSFDTCKPPEEQLTFKDLVSCAYQVARGMEYLASQK CIHRDLAARNVLVTEDNVMKIADFGLARDVHNLDYYKKTTNGRLPVKWMAP EALFDRVYTHQSDVWSFGVLLWEIFTLGGSPYPGIPVEELFKLLKEGHRMD KPANCTHDLYMIMRECWHAAPSQRPTFKQLVEDLDRVLTVTSTD FKESALR KQSLYLKFDPLLRDSPGRPVPVATETSSMHGANETPSGRPREAKLVEFDFL GALDIPVPGPPPGVPAPGGPPLSTGPIVDLLQYSQKDLDAVVKATQEENRE LRSRCEELHGKNLELGKIMDRFEEVVYQAMEEVQKQKELSKAEIQKVLKEK DQLTTDLNSMEKSFSDLFKRFEKQKEVIEGYRKNEESLKKCVEDYLARITQ EGQRYQALKAHAEEKLQLANEEIAQVRSKAQAEALALQASLRKEQMRIQSL EKTVEQKTKENEELTRICDDLISKMEKI

SEQ ID NO: 541 is the amino acid sequence of FGFR3ex17-TACC3ex10. The sequence corresponding to FGFR3 is underlined. The sequence corresponding to TACC3 is italicized:

MGAPACALALCVAVAIVAGASSESLGTEQRVVGRAAEVPGPEPGQQEQLVF GSGDAVELSCPPPGGGPMGPTVWVKDGTGLVPSERVLVGPQRLQVLNASHE DSGAYSCRQRLTQRVLCHFSVRVTDAPSSGDDEDGEDEAEDTGVDTGAPYW TRPERMDKKLLAVPAANTVRFRCPAAGNPTPSISWLKNGREFRGEHRIGGI KLRHQQWSLVMESVVPSDRGNYTCVVENKFGSIRQTYTLDVLERSPHRPIL QAGLPANQTAVLGSDVEFHCKVYSDAQPHIQWLKHVEVNGSKVGPDGTPYV TVLKTAGANTTDKELEVLSLHNVTFEDAGEYTCLAGNSIGFSHHSAWLVVL PAEEELVEADEAGSVYAGILSYGVGFFLFILVVAAVTLCRLRSPPKKGLGS PTVHKISRFPLKRQVSLESNASMSSNTPLVRIARLSSGEGPTLANVSELEL PADPKWELSRARLTLGKPLGEGCFGQVVMAEAIGIDKDRAAKPVTVAVKML KDDATDKDLSDLVSEMEMMKMIGKHKNIINLLGACTQGGPLYVLVEYAAKG NLREFLRARRPPGLDYSFDTCKPPEEQLTFKDLVSCAYQVARGMEYLASQK CIHRDLAARNVLVTEDNVMKIADFGLARDVHNLDYYKKTTNGRLPVKWMAP EALFDRVYTHQSDVWSFGVLLWEIFTLGGSPYPGIPVEELFKLLKEGHRMD KPANCTHDLYMIMRECWHAAPSQRPTFKQLVEDLDRVLTVTSTD VPGPPPG VPAPGGPPLSTGPIVDLLQYSQKDLDAVVKATQEENRELRSRCEELHGKNL ELGKIMDRFEEVVYQAMEEVQKQKELSKAEIQKVLKEKDQLTTDLNSMEKS FSDLFKRFEKQKEVIEGYRKNEESLKKCVEDYLARITQEGQRYQALKAHAE EKLQLANEETAQVRSKAQAEALALQASLRKEQMRIQSLEKTVEQKTKENE ELTRICDDLISKMEKI

SEQ ID NO: 542 is the amino acid sequence of FGFR3ex17-TACC3ex6. The sequence corresponding to FGFR3 is underlined. The sequence corresponding to TACC3 is italicized:

MGAPACALALCVAVAIVAGASSESLGTEQRVVGRAAEVPGPEPGQQEQLVF GSGDAVELSCPPPGGGPMGPTVWVKDGTGLVPSERVLVGPQRLQVLNASHE DSGAYSCRQRLTQRVLCHFSVRVTDAPSSGDDEDGEDEAEDTGVDTGAPYW TRPERMDKKLLAVPAANTVRFRCPAAGNPTPSISWLKNGREFRGEHRIGGI KLRHQQWSLVMESVVPSDRGNYTCVVENKFGSIRQTYTLDVLERSPHRPIL QAGLPANQTAVLGSDVEFHCKVYSDAQPHIQWLKHVEVNGSKVGPDGTPYV TVLKTAGANTTDKELEVLSLHNVTFEDAGEYTCLAGNSIGFSHHSAWLVVL PAEEELVEADEAGSVYAGILSYGVGFFLFILVVAAVTLCRLRSPPKKGLGS PTVHKISRFPLKRQVSLESNASMSSNTPLVRIARLSSGEGPTLANVSELEL PADPKWELSRARLTLGKPLGEGCFGQVVMAEAIGIDKDRAAKPVTVAVKML KDDATDKDLSDLVSEMEMMKMIGKHKNIINLLGACTQGGPLYVLVEYAAKG NLREFLRARRPPGLDYSFDTCKPPEEQLTFKDLVSCAYQVARGMEYLASQK CIHRDLAARNVLVTEDNVMKIADFGLARDVHNLDYYKKTTNGRLPVKWMAP EALFDRVYTHQSDVWSFGVLLWEIFTLGGSPYPGIPVEELFKLLKEGHRMD KPANCTHDLYMIMRECWHAAPSQRPTFKQLVEDLDRVLTVTSTD ERALNSA STSLPTSCPGSEPVPTHQQGQPALELKEESERDPAEVLGTGAEVDYLEQFG TSSEKESALRKQSLYLKFDPLLRDSPGRPVPVATETSSMHGANETPSGRPR EAKLVEFDFLGALDIPVPGPPPGVPAPGGPPLSTGPIVDLLQYSQKDLDAV VKATQEENRELRSRCEELHGKNLELGKIMDRFEEVVYQAMEEVQKQKELSK AEIQKVLKEKDQLTTDLNSMEKSFSDLEKRFEKQKEVIEGYRKNEESLKKC VEDYLARITQEGQRYQALKAHAEEKLQLA

SEQ ID NO: 543 is the amino acid sequence of FGFR3ex18-TACC3ex13. The sequence corresponding to FGFR3 is underlined. The sequence corresponding to TACC3 is italicized:

MGAPACALALCVAVAIVAGASSESLGTEQRVVGRAAEVPGPEPGQQEQLVF GSGDAVELSCPPPGGGPMGPTVWVKDGTGLVPSERVLVGPQRLQVLNASHE DSGAYSCRQRLTQRVLCHFSVRVTDAPSSGDDEDGEDEAEDTGVDTGAPYW TRPERMDKKLLAVPAANTVRFRCPAAGNPTPSISWLKNGREFRGEHRIGGI KLRHQQWSLVMESVVPSDRGNYTCVVENKFGSIRQTYTLDVLERSPHRPIL QAGLPANQTAVLGSDVEFHCKVYSDAQPHIQWLKHVEVNGSKVGPDGTPYV TVLKTAGANTTDKELEVLSLHNVTFEDAGEYTCLAGNSIGFSHHSAWLVVL PAEEELVEADEAGSVYAGILSYGVGFFLFILVVAAVTLCRLRSPPKKGLGS PTVHKISRFPLKRQVSLESNASMSSNTPLVRIARLSSGEGPTLANVSELEL PADPKWELSRARLTLGKPLGEGCFGQVVMAEAIGIDKDRAAKPVTVAVKML KDDATDKDLSDLVSEMEMMKMIGKHKNIINLLGACTQGGPLYVLVEYAAKG NLREFLRARRPPGLDYSFDTCKPPEEQLTFKDLVSCAYQVARGMEYLASQK CIHRDLAARNVLVTEDNVMKIADFGLARDVHNLDYYKKTTNGRLPVKWMAP EALFDRVYTHQSDVWSFGVLLWEIFTLGGSPYPGIPVEELFKLLKEGHRMD KPANCTHDLYMIMRECWHAAPSQRPTFKQLVEDLDRVLTVTSTDEYLDLSA PFEQYSPGGQDTPS KQKELSKAEIQKVLKEKDQLTTDLNSMEKSFSDLFKR FEKQKEVIEGYRKNEESLKKCVEDYLARITQEGQRYQALKAHAEEKLQLAN EEIAQVRSKAQAEALALQASLRKEQMRIQSLEKTVEQKTKENEELTRICDD LISKMEKI

SEQ ID NO: 544 is the amino acid sequence of FGFR3ex18-TACC3ex9_INS66BP. The sequence corresponding to FGFR3 is underlined. The sequence corresponding to TACC3 is italicized. The sequence corresponding the 66 bp intronic insert is double underlined:

MGAPACALALCVAVAIVAGASSESLGTEQRVVGRAAEVPGPEPGQQEQLVF DGSGDAVELSCPPPGGGPMGPTVWVKGTGLVPSERVLVGPQRLQVLNASHE DSGAYSCRQRLTQRVLCHFSVRVTDAPSSGDDEDGEDEAEDTGVDTGAPYW TRPERMDKKLLAVPAANTVRFRCPAAGNPTPSISWLKNGREFRGEHRIGGI KLRHQQWSLVMESVVPSDRGNYTCVVENKFGSIRQTYTLDVLERSPHRPIL QAGLPANQTAVLGSDVEFHCKVYSDAQPHIQWLKHVEVNGSKVGPDGTPYV TVLKTAGANTTDKELEVLSLHNVTFEDAGEYTCLAGNSIGFSHHSAWLVVL PAEEELVEADEAGSVYAGILSYGVGFFLFILVVAAVTLCRLRSPPKKGLGS PTVHKISRFPLKRQVSLESNASMSSNTPLVRIARLSSGEGPTLANVSELEL PADPKWELSRARLTLGKPLGEGCFGQVVMAEAIGIDKDRAAKPVTVAVKML KDDATDKDLSDLVSEMEMMKMIGKHKNIINLLGACTQGGPLYVLVEYAAKG NLREFLRARRPPGLDYSFDTCKPPEEQLTFKDLVSCAYQVARGMEYLASQK CIHRDLAARNVLVTEDNVMKIADFGLARDVHNLDYYKKTTNGRLPVKWMAP EALFDRVYTHQSDVWSFGVLLWEIFTLGGSPYPGIPVEELFKLLKEGHRMD KPANCTHDLYMIMRECWHAAPSQRPTFKQLVEDLDRVLTVTSTDEYLDLSA QEQRQPTLQPQGCCLAGYSHRS SMHGANETPSGRPREAKLVEFDFLGALDI PVPGPPPGVPAPGGPPLSTGPIVDLLQYSQKDLDAVVKATQEENRELRSRC EELHGKNLELGKIMDRFEEVVYQAMEEVQKQKELSKAEIQKVLKEKDQLTT DLNSMEKSFSDLFKRFEKQKEVIEGYRKNEESLKKCVEDYLARITQEGQRY QALKAHAEEKLQLANEEIAQVRSKAQAEALALQASLRKEQMRIQSLEKTVE QKTKENEELTRICDDLISKMEKI

SEQ ID NO: 545 is the amino acid sequence of FGFR3ex18-TACC3ex5. The sequence corresponding to FGFR3 is underlined. The sequence corresponding to TACC3 is italicized:

MGAPACALALCVAVAIVAGASSESLGTEQRVVGRAAEVPGPEPGQQEQLVF GSGDAVELSCPPPGGGPMGPTVWVKDGTGLVPSERVLVGPQRLQVLNASHE DSGAYSCRQRLTQRVLCHFSVRVTDAPSSGDDEDGEDEAEDTGVDTGAPYW TRPERMDKKLLAVPAANTVRFRCPAAGNPTPSISWLKNGREFRGEHRIGGI KLRHQQWSLVMESVVPSDRGNYTCVVENKFGSIRQTYTLDVLERSPHRPIL QAGLPANQTAVLGSDVEFHCKVYSDAQPHIQWLKHVEVNGSKVGPDGTPYV TVLKTAGANTTDKELEVLSLHNVTFEDAGEYTCLAGNSIGFSHHSAWLVVL PAEEELVEADEAGSVYAGILSYGVGFFLFILVVAAVTLCRLRSPPKKGLGS PTVHKISRFPLKRQVSLESNASMSSNTPLVRIARLSSGEGPTLANVSELEL PADPKWELSRARLTLGKPLGEGCFGQVVMAEAIGIDKDRAAKPVTVAVKML KDDATDKDLSDLVSEMEMMKMIGKHKNIINLLGACTQGGPLYVLVEYAAKG NLREFLRARRPPGLDYSFDTCKPPEEQLTFKDLVSCAYQVARGMEYLASQK CIHRDLAARNVLVTEDNVMKIADFGLARDVHNLDYYKKTTNGRLPVKWMAP EALFDRVYTHQSDVWSFGVLLWEIFTLGGSPYPGIPVEELFKLLKEGHRMD KPANCTHDLYMIMRECWHAAPSQRPTFKQLVEDLDRVLTVTSTDEYLDLSA PVVQLAAETPTAESKERALNSASTSLPTSCPGSEPVPTHQQGQPALELKEE SFRDPAEVLGTGAEVDYLEQFGTSSFKESALRKQSLYLKFDPLLRDSPGRP VPVATETSSMHGANETPSGRPREAKLVEFDFLGALDIPVPGPPPGVPAPGG PPLSTGPIVDLLQYSQKDLDAVVKATQEENRELRSRCEELHGKNLELGKIM DRFEEVVYQAMEEVQKQKELSKAEIQKVLKEKDQLTTDLNSMEKSFSDLFK RFEKQKEVIEGYRKNEESLKKCVEDYLARITQEGQRYQALKAHAEEKLQLA NEEIAQVRSKAQAEALALQASLRKEQMRIQSLEKTVEQKTKENEELTRICD DLISKMEKI

SEQ ID NO: 546 is the amino acid sequence of FGFR3ex18-TACC3ex5_INS33 bp. The sequence corresponding to FGFR3 is underlined. The sequence corresponding to TACC3 is italicized. The sequence corresponding the 33 bp intronic insert is double underlined:

MGAPACALALCVAVAIVAGASSESLGTEQRVVGRAAEVPGPEPGQQEQLVF GSGDAVELSCPPPGGGPMGPTVWVKDGTGLVPSERVLVGPQRLQVLNASHE DSGAYSCRQRLTQRVLCHFSVRVTDAPSSGDDEDGEDEAEDTGVDTGAPYW TRPERMDKKLLAVPAANTVRFRCPAAGNPTPSISWLKNGREFRGEHRIGGI KLRHQQWSLVMESVVPSDRGNYTCVVENKFGSIRQTYTLDVLERSPHRPIL QAGLPANQTAVLGSDVEFHCKVYSDAQPHIQWLKHVEVNGSKVGPDGTPYV TVLKTAGANTTDKELEVLSLHNVTFEDAGEYTCLAGNSIGFSHHSAWLVVL PAEEELVEADEAGSVYAGILSYGVGFFLFILVVAAVTLCRLRSPPKKGLGS PTVHKISRFPLKRQVSLESNASMSSNTPLVRIARLSSGEGPTLANVSELEL PADPKWELSRARLTLGKPLGEGCFGQVVMAEAIGIDKDRAAKPVTVAVKML KDDATDKDLSDLVSEMEMMKMIGKHKNIINLLGACTQGGPLYVLVEYAAKG NLREFLRARRPPGLDYSFDTCKPPEEQLTFKDLVSCAYQVARGMEYLASQK CIHRDLAARNVLVTEDNVMKIADFGLARDVHNLDYYKKTTNGRLPVKWMAP EALFDRVYTHQSDVWSFGVLLWEIFTLGGSPYPGIPVEELFKLLKEGHRMD KPANCTHDLYMIMRECWHAAPSQRPTFKQLVEDLDRVLTVTSTDEYLDLSA PFEQYSPGGQDTPSSSSSG VREPPHPAFPX SAEDTPVVQLAAETPTAESKE RALNSASTSLPTSCPGSEPVPTHQQGQPALELKEESFRDPAEVLGTGAEVD YLEQFGTSSFKESALRKQSLYLKFDPLLRDSPGRPVPVATETSSMHGANET PSGRPREAKLVEFDFLGALDIPVPGPPPGVPAPGGPPLSTGPIVDLLQYSQ KDLDAVVKATQEENRELRSRCEELHGKNLELGKIMDRFEEVVYQAMEEVQK QKELSKAEIQKVLKEKDQLTTDLNSMEKSFSDLFKRFEKQKEVIEGYRKNE ESLKKCVEDYLARITQEGQRYQALKAHAEEKLQLANEEIAQVRSKAQAEAL ALQASLRKEQMRIQSLEKTVEQKTKENEELTRICDDLISKMEKI

SEQ ID NO: 547 is the amino acid sequence of FGFR3ex18-TACC3ex4. The sequence corresponding to FGFR3 is underlined. The sequence corresponding to TACC3 is italicized.

MGAPACALALCVAVAIVAGASSESLGTEQRVVGRAAEVPGPEPGQQEQLVF GSGDAVELSCPPPGGGPMGPTVWVKDGTGLVPSERVLVGPQRLQVLNASHE DSGAYSCRQRLTQRVLCHFSVRVTDAPSSGDDEDGEDEAEDTGVDTGAPYW TRPERMDKKLLAVPAANTVRFRCPAAGNPTPSISWLKNGREFRGEHRIGGI KLRHQQWSLVMESVVPSDRGNYTCVVENKFGSIRQTYTLDVLERSPHRPIL QAGLPANQTAVLGSDVEFHCKVYSDAQPHIQWLKHVEVNGSKVGPDGTPYV TVLKTAGANTTDKELEVLSLHNVTFEDAGEYTCLAGNSIGFSHHSAWLVVL PAEEELVEADEAGSVYAGILSYGVGFFLFILVVAAVTLCRLRSPPKKGLGS PTVHKISRFPLKRQVSLESNASMSSNTPLVRIARLSSGEGPTLANVSELEL PADPKWELSRARLTLGKPLGEGCFGQVVMAEAIGIDKDRAAKPVTVAVKML KDDATDKDLSDLVSEMEMMKMIGKHKNIINLLGACTQGGPLYVLVEYAAKG NLREFLRARRPPGLDYSFDTCKPPEEQLTFKDLVSCAYQVARGMEYLASQK CIHRDLAARNVLVTEDNVMKIADFGLARDVHNLDYYKKTTNGRLPVKWMAP EALFDRVYTHQSDVWSFGVLLWEIFTLGGSPYPGIPVEELFKLLKEGHRMD KPANCTHDLYMIMRECWHAAPSQRPTFKQLVEDLDRVLTVTSTDEYLDLSA PFEQYSPGGQDT PESPETRLGQPAAEQLHAGPATEEPGPCLSQQLHSASAE DTPVVQLAAETPTAESKERALNSASTSLPTSCPGSEPVPTHQQGQPALELK EESFRDPAEVLGTGAEVDYLEQFGTSSFKESALRKQSLYLKFDPLLRDSPG RPVPVATETSSMHGANETPSGRPREAKLVEFDFLGALDIPVPGPPPGVPAP GGPPLSTGPIVDLLQYSQKDLDAVVKATQEENRELRSRCEELHGKNLELGK IMDRFEEVVYQAMEEVQKQKELSKAEIQKVLKEKDQLTTDLNSMEKSFSDL FKRFEKQKEVIEGYRKNEESLKKCVEDYLARITQEGQRYQALKAHAEEKLQ LANEEIAQVRSKAQAEALALQASLRKEQMRIQSLEKTVEQKTKENEELTRI CDDLISKMEKI

The Genbank ID for the FGFR4 gene is 2264. Three isoforms are listed for FGFR4, e.g., having Genebank Accession Nos. NP_002002 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_002011); NP_075252 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_022963); NP_998812 (corresponding nucleotide sequence NM_213647).

As used herein, a “FGFR fusion molecule” can be a nucleic acid (e.g., synthetic, purified, and/or recombinant) which encodes a polypeptide corresponding to a fusion protein comprising a tyrosine kinase domain of an FGFR protein fused to a polypeptide that constitutively activates the tyrosine kinase domain of the FGFR protein, or a nucleic acid encoding a fusion protein comprising a transforming acidic coiled-coil (TACC) domain fused to a polypeptide with a tyrosine kinase domain, wherein the TACC domain constitutively activates the tyrosine kinase domain. It can also be a fusion protein comprising a tyrosine kinase domain of an FGFR protein fused to a polypeptide that constitutively activates the tyrosine kinase domain of the FGFR protein, or a fusion protein comprising a transforming acidic coiled-coil (TACC) domain fused to a polypeptide with a tyrosine kinase domain, wherein the TACC domain constitutively activates the tyrosine kinase domain. For example, a FGFR fusion molecule can include a FGFR1-TACC1 (e.g., comprising the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 150, or comprising the nucleic acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 88), FGFR2-TACC2, FGFR3-TACC3 (e.g., comprising the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NOS: 79, 158-161, or 539-547 or comprising the nucleic acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NOS: 80-82, 84, 94-145, 515, 517, 519-527, or 530-538), or other FGFR-TACC fusion proteins (e.g., an N-terminal fragment of FGFR4 containing its tyrosine kinase domain fused to a fragment of TACC1, TACC2, or TACC3). For example, a FGFR fusion molecule can include a FGFR1-containing fusion comprising the amino acid sequence corresponding to Genebank Accession no. NP_001167534, NP_001167535, NP_001167536, NP_001167537, NP_001167538, NP_056934, NP_075593, NP_075594, or NP_075598; or a FGFR1-containing fusion comprising the nucleotide sequence corresponding to Genebank Accession no. NM_001174063, NM_001174064, NM_001174065, NM_001174066, NM_001174067, NM_015850, NM_023105, NM_023106, or NM_023110. For example, a FGFR fusion molecule can include a FGFR2-containing fusion comprising the amino acid sequence corresponding to Genebank Accession no. NP_000132, NP_001138385, NP_001138386, NP_001138387, NP_001138388, NP_001138389, NP_001138390, NP_001138391, or NP_075259; or a FGFR2-containing fusion comprising the nucleotide sequence corresponding to Genebank Accession no. NM_000141, NM_001144913, NM_001144914, NM_001144915, NM_001144916, NM_001144917, NM_001144918, NM_001144919, or NM_022970. For example, a FGFR fusion molecule can include a FGFR3-containing fusion comprising the amino acid sequence corresponding to Genebank Accession no. NP_000133, NP_001156685, or NP_075254; or a FGFR3-containing fusion comprising the nucleotide sequence corresponding to Genebank Accession no. NM_000142, NM_001163213, or NM_022965. For example, a FGFR fusion molecule can include a FGFR4-containing fusion comprising the amino acid sequence corresponding to Genebank Accession no. NP_002002, NP_075252, or NP_998812; or a FGFR4-containing fusion comprising the nucleotide sequence corresponding to Genebank Accession no. NM_002011, NM_022963, or NM_213647. A FGFR fusion molecule can also include a tyrosine kinase domain of an FGFR protein fused to a protein encoded by any one of the genes listed in Table 1A. A FGFR fusion molecule can include a variant of the above described examples, such as a fragment thereof.

TABLE 1A Fusion Partners gene gene gene gene ABCA13 C21orf29 CAMKK1 DNAJC6 ABCC1 CACNA1C CAMSAP1 DYRK3 ABCC12 CACNA1G CAMTA1 EIF2C2 ABCC6 CNTNAP4 CAP2 FAM184B ABL1 CUL3 CCDC147 FREM2 ADAM12 DMD CCDC158 GDPD2 ADCY10 DUSP27 CELF2 GLI3 ADCY2 ECE1 CILP IL1RN ADCY8 EYS CMYA5 ISX AGBL4 FAM172A COL14A1 KIDINS220 AHNAK FAM184B CORO7 LRBA ANXA7 FGFR4 CSMD2 LY75 AP4S1 ITGAV CUL3 MDH2 AQP2 LRP1 DDI2 MMP12 ARMC6 LY75 DEPDC5 N4BP2L2 ATP5B MAPKAP1 DEPDC7 NCF2 ATP6AP1L MYT1 DI10L NCOR1 ATP6V0D2 NCF2 DMD NCRNA00157 ATXN1 NCOR1 EDA NRXN3 BAHD1 NHSL2 EFHC1 PARP16 BBX NKAIN2 EFS PLA2G2F BCA10 NR3C1 EIF2C2 PLEK2 C15orf23 NUP188 ENTPD2 PRKCH C15orf33 OSBPL10 EYS PTPRS C21orf29 PACSIN1 FAM160A1 ROBO1 C2CD3 PARP16 MUSK SASH3 C6orf170 PDZRN4 NEUROG1 SH3BP5 C7orf44 POLM NHSL2 SLC44A2 CACNA1C PPP1R3A NR3C1 SLC5A4 CACNA1G PSEN1 ODZ1 SNX5 FAM168A PTPRD PCDH12 SORCS2 FAM172A PTPRS PLCL1 SRRM1 FAM192A RALYL PLEKHM3 SSX3 FAM19A2 RERE PLOD3 STAG2 FBXL4 RIMBP2 PRKCH STK24 FH RNF216 PSEN1 SURF6 FREM2 SDAD1 SEPT5 SYNPO2 GAPVD1 SEC14L3 SLC44A2 TAF1 GLI3 SH3RF3 SNTA1 TMEM80 GPR182 SLC9A1 USP48 TNFRSF10B GSTA3 SMOC2 VSNL1 TTYH1 IGFBP3 SNX5 WDFY1 UNC93B1 ITGA9 TACC2 WISP2 VSNL1 ITGB2 SRGAP1 XRRA1 XRCC4 JOSD2 SSX3 LRRC4B ZNF410 KIDINS220 SUMF1 LRRK2 TRIOBP LAMA2 SYNPO2 MAPKAP1 TTYH1 LCLAT1 TNFRSF10B MST1R LRBA LIN9

For example, a FGFR fusion molecule can include a FGFR3-containing fusion comprising the amino acid sequence corresponding to residues 1-760 of FGFR3 (e.g. SEQ ID NO: 90) fused to the amino acid sequence corresponding residues 648-838 of TACC3 (e.g. SEQ ID NO: 92). A FGFR fusion molecule can also include a FGFR3-containing fusion comprising the amino acid sequence corresponding to residues 1-760 of FGFR3 (e.g. SEQ ID NO: 90) fused to the amino acid sequence corresponding residues 549-838 of TACC3 (e.g. SEQ ID NO: 92). A FGFR fusion molecule can include a FGFR3-containing fusion comprising the amino acid sequence corresponding to residues 1-760 of FGFR3 (e.g. SEQ ID NO: 90) fused to the amino acid sequence corresponding residues 613-838 of TACC3 (e.g. SEQ ID NO: 92). A FGFR fusion molecule can include a FGFR3-containing fusion comprising the amino acid sequence corresponding to residues 1-760 of FGFR3 (e.g. SEQ ID NO: 90) fused to the amino acid sequence corresponding residues 488-838 of TACC3 (e.g. SEQ ID NO: 92). A FGFR fusion molecule can include a FGFR3-containing fusion comprising the amino acid sequence corresponding to residues 1-781 of FGFR3 (e.g. SEQ ID NO: 90) fused to the amino acid sequence corresponding residues 689-838 of TACC3 (e.g. SEQ ID NO: 92). A FGFR fusion molecule can include a FGFR3-containing fusion comprising the amino acid sequence corresponding to residues 1-765 of FGFR3 (e.g. SEQ ID NO: 90) fused to the amino acid sequence corresponding residues 583-838 of TACC3 (e.g. SEQ ID NO: 92). A FGFR fusion molecule can include a FGFR3-containing fusion comprising the amino acid sequence corresponding to residues 1-767 of FGFR3 (e.g. SEQ ID NO: 90) fused to the amino acid sequence corresponding residues 462-838 of TACC3 (e.g. SEQ ID NO: 92). A FGFR fusion molecule can include a FGFR3-containing fusion comprising the amino acid sequence corresponding to residues 1-767 of FGFR3 (e.g. SEQ ID NO: 90) fused to the amino acid sequence corresponding residues 472-838 of TACC3 (e.g. SEQ ID NO: 92). A FGFR fusion molecule can include a FGFR3-containing fusion comprising the amino acid sequence corresponding to residues 1-780 of FGFR3 (e.g. SEQ ID NO: 90) fused to the amino acid sequence corresponding residues 432-838 of TACC3 (e.g. SEQ ID NO: 92). A FGFR fusion molecule can include a FGFR1-containing fusion comprising the amino acid sequence corresponding to residues 1-762 of FGFR1 (e.g. SEQ ID NOS: 146, 185) fused to the amino acid sequence corresponding residues 571-805 of TACC1 (e.g. SEQ ID NO: 148). For example, a FGFR fusion molecule can include SEQ ID NOs: 539-543, 545, and 547.

The alteration in a chromosome region occupied by a FGFR fusion molecule, e.g., a FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, FGFR3-TACC3 or other FGFR-TACC nucleic acid, can result in amino acid substitutions, RNA splicing or processing, product instability, the creation of stop codons, production of oncogenic fusion proteins, frame-shift mutations, and/or truncated polypeptide production. A FGFR fusion molecule can include FGFR and TACC exons joined in the fused mRNA or cDNA. A FGFR fusion molecule can also include FGFR and TACC exons joined in the fused mRNA or cDNA along with the presence of FGFR or TACC introns that are spliced in the fusion cDNA. FGFR or TACC introns can encode amino acids of the FGFR fusion molecule. For example, a FGFR fusion molecule can include a FGFR3-containing fusion comprising the amino acid sequence corresponding to residues 1-765 of FGFR3 (e.g. SEQ ID NO: 90) fused to a 22 amino acid sequence encoded by a TACC3 intron fused to the amino acid sequence corresponding to residues 583-838 of TACC3 (e.g. SEQ ID NO: 92). For example, a FGFR fusion molecule can include a FGFR3-containing fusion comprising the amino acid sequence corresponding to residues 1-767 of FGFR3 (e.g. SEQ ID NO: 90) fused to a 11 amino acid sequence encoded by a TACC3 intron fused to the amino acid sequence corresponding to residues 472-838 of TACC3 (e.g. SEQ ID NO: 92). For example, a FGFR fusion molecule can include SEQ ID NOs: 544 and 546.

A FGFR fusion protein can also include a fusion protein encoded by an FGFR3-TACC3 nucleic acid, wherein FGFR3-TACC3 comprises a combination of introns and exons 1-18 of FGFR3 located on human chromosome 4p16 spliced 5′ to a combination of introns and exons 4-16 of TACC3 located on human chromosome 4p16, wherein a genomic breakpoint occurs in any one of introns or exons 1-18 of FGFR3 and any one of introns or exons 3-16 of TACC3. For example, a FGFR fusion protein can also include a fusion protein encoded by an FGFR3-TACC3 nucleic acid, wherein the nucleic acid comprises exons 1-17 of FGFR3 located on human chromosome 4p16 spliced 5′ to exons 11-16 of TACC3 located on human chromosome 4p16. In one embodiment, a genomic breakpoint occurs in intron 17 of FGFR3 and in intron 10 of TACC3. For example, a FGFR fusion protein can also include a fusion protein encoded by an FGFR3-TACC3 nucleic acid, wherein the nucleic acid comprises exons 1-17 of FGFR3 located on human chromosome 4p16 spliced 5′ to exons 8-16 of TACC3 located on human chromosome 4p16. In one embodiment, a genomic breakpoint occurs in intron 17 of FGFR3 and in intron 7 of TACC3. For example, a FGFR fusion protein can also include a fusion protein encoded by an FGFR3-TACC3 nucleic acid, wherein the nucleic acid comprises exons 1-17 of FGFR3 located on human chromosome 4p16 spliced 5′ to exons 10-16 of TACC3 located on human chromosome 4p16. In one embodiment, a genomic breakpoint occurs in exon 18 of FGFR3 and in intron 9 of TACC3. For example, a FGFR fusion protein can also include a fusion protein encoded by an FGFR3-TACC3 nucleic acid, wherein the nucleic acid comprises exons 1-17 of FGFR3 located on human chromosome 4p16 spliced 5′ to exons 6-16 of TACC3 located on human chromosome 4p16. In one embodiment, a genomic breakpoint occurs in intron 17 of FGFR3 and in intron 5 of TACC3. In one embodiment, a genomic breakpoint occurs in intron 17 of FGFR3 and in exon 5 of TACC3. For example, a FGFR fusion protein can also include a fusion protein encoded by an FGFR3-TACC3 nucleic acid, wherein the nucleic acid comprises exons 1-18 of FGFR3 located on human chromosome 4p16 spliced 5′ to exons 13-16 of TACC3 located on human chromosome 4p16. In one embodiment, a genomic breakpoint occurs in exon 18 of FGFR3 and in intron 12 or exon 13 of TACC3. For example, a FGFR fusion protein can also include a fusion protein encoded by an FGFR3-TACC3 nucleic acid, wherein the nucleic acid comprises exons 1-18 of FGFR3 located on human chromosome 4p16 spliced 5′ to a portion of intron 8 of TACC3 and exons 9-16 of TACC3 located on human chromosome 4p16. In one embodiment, a genomic breakpoint occurs in exon 18 of FGFR3 and in intron 8 of TACC3. For example, a FGFR fusion protein can also include a fusion protein encoded by an FGFR3-TACC3 nucleic acid, wherein the nucleic acid comprises exons 1-18 of FGFR3 located on human chromosome 4p16 spliced 5′ to exons 5-16 of TACC3 located on human chromosome 4p16. In one embodiment, a genomic breakpoint occurs in exon 18 of FGFR3 and in intron 4 or exon 5 of TACC3. For example, a FGFR fusion protein can also include a fusion protein encoded by an FGFR3-TACC3 nucleic acid, wherein the nucleic acid comprises exons 1-18 of FGFR3 located on human chromosome 4p16 spliced 5′ to a portion of intron 4 of TACC 3 and exons 5-16 of TACC3 located on human chromosome 4p16. In one embodiment, a genomic breakpoint occurs in exon 18 of FGFR3 and in intron 4 or exon 5 of TACC3. For example, a FGFR fusion protein can also include a fusion protein encoded by an FGFR3-TACC3 nucleic acid, wherein the nucleic acid comprises exons 1-18 of FGFR3 located on human chromosome 4p16 spliced 5′ to exons 4-16 of TACC3 located on human chromosome 4p16. In one embodiment, a genomic breakpoint occurs in exon 18 of FGFR3 and in intron 3 or exon 4 of TACC3. For example, a FGFR fusion protein can also include a fusion protein encoded by an FGFR3-TACC3 nucleic acid, wherein the nucleic acid comprises exons 1-17 of FGFR3 and a portion of intron 17 of FGFR3 located on human chromosome 4p16 spliced 5′ to exons 9-16 of TACC3 located on human chromosome 4p16. In one embodiment, a genomic breakpoint occurs in intron 17 of FGFR3 and in exon 9 of TACC3. For example, a FGFR fusion protein can also include a fusion protein encoded by an FGFR1-TACC1 nucleic acid, wherein the nucleic acid comprises exons 1-17 of FGFR1 located on human chromosome 8p11 spliced 5′ to exons 7-13 of TACC1 located on human chromosome 8p11. In one embodiment, a genomic breakpoint occurs in intron 17 or exon 17 of FGFR1 and in intron 6 or exon 7 of TACC1.

In one embodiment, the coordinates comprising FGFR3 translocations comprise chr4:1,795,039-1,810,599. In a further embodiment, the genomic breakpoint coordinate according to the genome build GRCh37/hg19 for FGFR3 is chr4:1,808,808, chr4:1,808,843, chr4:1,809,083, chr4:1,808,785, chr4:1,808,700, chr4:1,808,864, chr4:1,808,678, chr4:1, 808,798, or chr4:1,808,723. In a further embodiment, the coordinates comprising TACC3 translocations comprise chr4:1,723,217-1,746,905. In a further embodiment, the genomic breakpoint coordinate according to the genome build GRCh37/hg19 for TACC3 is chr4:1,732,648, chr4:1,732,757, chr4:1,739,187, chr4:1,737,091, chr4:1,737,062, chr4:1,737741, chr4:1,739,662, chr4:1,739,600, or chr4:1,738,989.

The nucleic acid can be any type of nucleic acid, including genomic DNA, complementary DNA (cDNA), recombinant DNA, synthetic or semi-synthetic DNA, as well as any form of corresponding RNA. A cDNA is a form of DNA artificially synthesized from a messenger RNA template and is used to produce gene clones. A synthetic DNA is free of modifications that can be found in cellular nucleic acids, including, but not limited to, histones and methylation. For example, a nucleic acid encoding a FGFR fusion molecule can comprise a recombinant nucleic acid encoding such a protein. The nucleic acid can be a non-naturally occurring nucleic acid created artificially (such as by assembling, cutting, ligating or amplifying sequences). It can be double-stranded or single-stranded.

The invention further provides for nucleic acids that are complementary to a FGFR fusion molecule. Complementary nucleic acids can hybridize to the nucleic acid sequence described above under stringent hybridization conditions. Non-limiting examples of stringent hybridization conditions include temperatures above 30° C., above 35° C., in excess of 42° C., and/or salinity of less than about 500 mM, or less than 200 mM. Hybridization conditions can be adjusted by the skilled artisan via modifying the temperature, salinity and/or the concentration of other reagents such as SDS or SSC.

According to the invention, protein variants can include amino acid sequence modifications. For example, amino acid sequence modifications fall into one or more of three classes: substitutional, insertional or deletional variants. Insertions can include amino and/or carboxyl terminal fusions as well as intrasequence insertions of single or multiple amino acid residues. Insertions ordinarily will be smaller insertions than those of amino or carboxyl terminal fusions, for example, on the order of one to four residues. Deletions are characterized by the removal of one or more amino acid residues from the protein sequence. These variants ordinarily are prepared by site-specific mutagenesis of nucleotides in the DNA encoding the protein, thereby producing DNA encoding the variant, and thereafter expressing the DNA in recombinant cell culture.

In one embodiment, a FGFR fusion molecule comprises a protein or polypeptide encoded by a nucleic acid sequence encoding a FGFR fusion molecule, such as the sequences shown in SEQ ID NOS: 80-82, 84, 94-145, 515, 517, 519-527, or 530-538. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid sequence encoding a FGFR fusion molecule is about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 93%, about 95%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99% identical to SEQ ID NOS: 80-82, 84, 94-145, 515, 517, 519-527, or 530-538. In another embodiment, the polypeptide can be modified, such as by glycosylations and/or acetylations and/or chemical reaction or coupling, and can contain one or several non-natural or synthetic amino acids. An example of a FGFR fusion molecule is the polypeptide having the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NOS: 79, 88, 150, 158-161, or 539-547. In some embodiments, the FGFR fusion molecule that is a polypeptide is about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 93%, about 95%, about 97%, about 98%, or about 99% identical to SEQ ID NOS: 79, 88, 150, 158-161, or 539-547. In another embodiment, a FGFR fusion molecule can be a fragment of a FGFR fusion protein. For example, the FGFR fusion molecule can encompass any portion of at least about 8 consecutive amino acids of SEQ ID NOS: 79, 88, 150, 158-161, or 539-547. The fragment can comprise at least about 10 amino acids, a least about 20 amino acids, at least about 30 amino acids, at least about 40 amino acids, a least about 50 amino acids, at least about 60 amino acids, or at least about 75 amino acids of SEQ ID NOS: 79, 88, 150, 158-161, or 539-547. Fragments include all possible amino acid lengths between about 8 and 100 about amino acids, for example, lengths between about 10 and 100 amino acids, between about 15 and 100 amino acids, between about 20 and 100 amino acids, between about 35 and 100 amino acids, between about 40 and 100 amino acids, between about 50 and 100 amino acids, between about 70 and 100 amino acids, between about 75 and 100 amino acids, or between about 80 and 100 amino acids. Fragments include all possible amino acid lengths between about 100 and 800 amino acids, for example, lengths between about 125 and 800 amino acids, between about 150 and 800 amino acids, between about 175 and 800 amino acids, between about 200 and 800 amino acids, between about 225 and 800 amino acids, between about 250 and 800 amino acids, between about 275 and 800 amino acids, between about 300 and 800 amino acids, between about 325 and 800 amino acids, between about 350 and 800 amino acids, between about 375 and 800 amino acids, between about 400 and 800 amino acids, between about 425 and 800 amino acids, between about 450 and 800 amino acids, between about 475 and 800 amino acids, between about 500 and 800 amino acids, between about 525 and 800 amino acids, between about 550 and 800 amino acids, between about 575 and 800 amino acids, between about 600 and 800 amino acids, between about 625 and 800 amino acids, between about 650 and 800 amino acids, between about 675 and 800 amino acids, between about 700 and 800 amino acids, between about 725 and 800 amino acids, between about 750 and 800 amino acids, or between about 775 and 800 amino acids.

Chemical Synthesis.

Nucleic acid sequences encoding a FGFR fusion molecule can be synthesized, in whole or in part, using chemical methods known in the art. Alternatively, a polypeptide can be produced using chemical methods to synthesize its amino acid sequence, such as by direct peptide synthesis using solid-phase techniques. Protein synthesis can either be performed using manual techniques or by automation. Automated synthesis can be achieved, for example, using Applied Biosystems 431A Peptide Synthesizer (Perkin Elmer).

Optionally, polypeptides fragments can be separately synthesized and combined using chemical methods to produce a full-length molecule. For example, these methods can be utilized to synthesize a fusion protein of the invention. In one embodiment, the fusion protein comprises a tyrosine kinase domain of an FGFR protein fused to a polypeptide that constitutively activates the tyrosine kinase domain of the FGFR protein. In another embodiment, a fusion protein comprises a transforming acidic coiled-coil (TACC) domain fused to a polypeptide with a tyrosine kinase domain, wherein the TACC domain constitutively activates the tyrosine kinase domain. An example of a fusion protein is the FGFR1-TACC1 polypeptide, which comprises the amino acid sequence shown in SEQ ID NO: 150. An example of a fusion protein is the FGFR3-TACC3 polypeptide, which has the amino acid sequence comprising SEQ ID NO: 79, 158, 159, 160, 161, 539, 540, 541, 542, 543, 544, 545, 546, or 547.

Obtaining, Purifying and Detecting FGFR Fusion Molecules.

A polypeptide encoded by a nucleic acid, such as a nucleic acid encoding a FGFR fusion molecule, or a variant thereof, can be obtained by purification from human cells expressing a protein or polypeptide encoded by such a nucleic acid. Non-limiting purification methods include size exclusion chromatography, ammonium sulfate fractionation, ion exchange chromatography, affinity chromatography, and preparative gel electrophoresis.

A synthetic polypeptide can be substantially purified via high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), such as ion exchange chromatography (IEX-HPLC). The composition of a synthetic polypeptide, such as a FGFR fusion molecule, can be confirmed by amino acid analysis or sequencing.

Other constructions can also be used to join a nucleic acid sequence encoding a polypeptide/protein of the claimed invention to a nucleotide sequence encoding a polypeptide domain which will facilitate purification of soluble proteins. Such purification facilitating domains include, but are not limited to, metal chelating peptides such as histidine-tryptophan modules that allow purification on immobilized metals, protein A domains that allow purification on immobilized immunoglobulin, and the domain utilized in the FLAGS extension/affinity purification system (Immunex Corp., Seattle, Wash.). Including cleavable linker sequences (i.e., those specific for Factor Xa or enterokinase (Invitrogen, San Diego, Calif.)) between the purification domain and a polypeptide encoded by a nucleic acid of the invention also can be used to facilitate purification. For example, the skilled artisan can use an expression vector encoding 6 histidine residues that precede a thioredoxin or an enterokinase cleavage site in conjunction with a nucleic acid of interest. The histidine residues facilitate purification by immobilized metal ion affinity chromatography, while the enterokinase cleavage site provides a means for purifying the polypeptide encoded by, for example, an FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, FGFR3-TACC3, other FGFR-TACC, FGFR-containing, or TACC containing nucleic acid.

Host cells which contain a nucleic acid encoding a FGFR fusion molecule, and which subsequently express the same, can be identified by various procedures known to those of skill in the art. These procedures include, but are not limited to, DNA-DNA or DNA-RNA hybridizations and protein bioassay or immunoassay techniques which include membrane, solution, or chip-based technologies for the detection and/or quantification of nucleic acid or protein. For example, the presence of a nucleic acid encoding a FGFR fusion molecule can be detected by DNA-DNA or DNA-RNA hybridization or amplification using probes or fragments of nucleic acids encoding the same. In one embodiment, a nucleic acid fragment of a FGFR fusion molecule can encompass any portion of at least about 8 consecutive nucleotides of SEQ ID NOS: 80-82, 84, 94-145, 515, 517, 519-527, or 530-538. In another embodiment, the fragment can comprise at least about 10 consecutive nucleotides, at least about 15 consecutive nucleotides, at least about 20 consecutive nucleotides, or at least about 30 consecutive nucleotides of SEQ ID NOS: 80-82, 84, 94-145, 515, 517, 519-527, 530-538. Fragments can include all possible nucleotide lengths between about 8 and about 100 nucleotides, for example, lengths between about 15 and about 100 nucleotides, or between about 20 and about 100 nucleotides. Nucleic acid amplification-based assays involve the use of oligonucleotides selected from sequences encoding a FGFR fusion molecule nucleic acid, or FGFR fusion molecule nucleic acid to detect transformants which contain a nucleic acid encoding a protein or polypeptide of the same.

Protocols are known in the art for detecting and measuring the expression of a polypeptide encoded by a nucleic acid, such as a nucleic acid encoding a FGFR fusion molecule, using either polyclonal or monoclonal antibodies specific for the polypeptide. Non-limiting examples include enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), radioimmunoassay (MA), immunostaining, and fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS). A two-site, monoclonal-based immunoassay using monoclonal antibodies reactive to two non-interfering epitopes on a polypeptide encoded by a nucleic acid, such as a nucleic acid encoding a FGFR fusion molecule, can be used, or a competitive binding assay can be employed.

Labeling and conjugation techniques are known by those skilled in the art and can be used in various nucleic acid and amino acid assays. Methods for producing labeled hybridization or PCR probes for detecting sequences related to nucleic acid sequences encoding a protein, such as FGFR fusion molecule, include, but are not limited to, oligolabeling, nick translation, end-labeling, or PCR amplification using a labeled nucleotide. Alternatively, nucleic acid sequences, such as nucleic acids encoding a FGFR fusion molecule, can be cloned into a vector for the production of an mRNA probe. Such vectors are known in the art, are commercially available, and can be used to synthesize RNA probes in vitro by addition of labeled nucleotides and an appropriate RNA polymerase such as T7, T3, or SP6. These procedures can be conducted using a variety of commercially available kits (Amersham Pharmacia Biotech, Promega, and US Biochemical). Suitable reporter molecules or labels which can be used for ease of detection include radionuclides, enzymes, and fluorescent, chemiluminescent, or chromogenic agents, as well as substrates, cofactors, inhibitors, and/or magnetic particles.

A fragment can be a fragment of a protein, such as a FGFR fusion protein. For example, a fragment of a FGFR fusion molecule can encompass any portion of at least about 8 consecutive amino acids of SEQ ID NOS: 79, 88, 150, 158-161, or 539-547. The fragment can comprise at least about 10 consecutive amino acids, at least about 20 consecutive amino acids, at least about 30 consecutive amino acids, at least about 40 consecutive amino acids, a least about 50 consecutive amino acids, at least about 60 consecutive amino acids, at least about 70 consecutive amino acids, at least about 75 consecutive amino acids, at least about 80 consecutive amino acids, at least about 85 consecutive amino acids, at least about 90 consecutive amino acids, at least about 95 consecutive amino acids, at least about 100 consecutive amino acids, at least about 200 consecutive amino acids, at least about 300 consecutive amino acids, at least about 400 consecutive amino acids, at least about 500 consecutive amino acids, at least about 600 consecutive amino acids, at least about 700 consecutive amino acids, or at least about 800 consecutive amino acids of SEQ ID NOS: 79, 88, 150, 158-161, or 539-547. Fragments include all possible amino acid lengths between about 8 and 100 about amino acids, for example, lengths between about 10 and about 100 amino acids, between about 15 and about 100 amino acids, between about 20 and about 100 amino acids, between about 35 and about 100 amino acids, between about 40 and about 100 amino acids, between about 50 and about 100 amino acids, between about 70 and about 100 amino acids, between about 75 and about 100 amino acids, or between about 80 and about 100 amino acids.

Cell Transfection

Host cells transformed with a nucleic acid sequence of interest can be cultured under conditions suitable for the expression and recovery of the protein from cell culture. The polypeptide produced by a transformed cell can be secreted or contained intracellularly depending on the sequence and/or the vector used. Expression vectors containing a nucleic acid sequence, such as a nucleic acid encoding a FGFR fusion molecule, can be designed to contain signal sequences which direct secretion of soluble polypeptide molecules encoded by the nucleic acid. Cell transfection and culturing methods are described in more detail below.

A eukaryotic expression vector can be used to transfect cells in order to produce proteins encoded by nucleotide sequences of the vector, e.g. those encoding a FGFR fusion molecule. Mammalian cells can contain an expression vector (for example, one that contains a nucleic acid encoding a fusion protein comprising a tyrosine kinase domain of an FGFR protein fused to a polypeptide that constitutively activates the tyrosine kinase domain of the FGFR protein, or a nucleic acid encoding a fusion protein comprises a transforming acidic coiled-coil (TACC) domain fused to a polypeptide with a tyrosine kinase domain, wherein the TACC domain constitutively activates the tyrosine kinase domain) via introducing the expression vector into an appropriate host cell via methods known in the art.

A host cell strain can be chosen for its ability to modulate the expression of the inserted sequences or to process the expressed polypeptide encoded by a nucleic acid, in the desired fashion. Such modifications of the polypeptide include, but are not limited to, acetylation, carboxylation, glycosylation, phosphorylation, lipidation, and acylation. Post-translational processing which cleaves a “prepro” form of the polypeptide also can be used to facilitate correct insertion, folding and/or function. Different host cells which have specific cellular machinery and characteristic mechanisms for post-translational activities (e.g., CHO, HeLa, MDCK, HEK293, and W138), are available from the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC; 10801 University Boulevard, Manassas, Va. 20110-2209) and can be chosen to ensure the correct modification and processing of the foreign protein.

An exogenous nucleic acid can be introduced into a cell via a variety of techniques known in the art, such as lipofection, microinjection, calcium phosphate or calcium chloride precipitation, DEAE-dextran-mediated transfection, or electroporation. Electroporation is carried out at approximate voltage and capacitance to result in entry of the DNA construct(s) into cells of interest (such as glioma cells (cell line SF188), neuroblastoma cells (cell lines IMR-32, SK-N-SH, SH-F and SH-N), astrocytes and the like). Other transfection methods also include modified calcium phosphate precipitation, polybrene precipitation, liposome fusion, and receptor-mediated gene delivery.

Cells that will be genetically engineered can be primary and secondary cells obtained from various tissues, and include cell types which can be maintained and propagated in culture. Non-limiting examples of primary and secondary cells include epithelial cells, neural cells, endothelial cells, glial cells, fibroblasts, muscle cells (such as myoblasts) keratinocytes, formed elements of the blood (e.g., lymphocytes, bone marrow cells), and precursors of these somatic cell types.

Vertebrate tissue can be obtained by methods known to one skilled in the art, such a punch biopsy or other surgical methods of obtaining a tissue source of the primary cell type of interest. In one embodiment, a punch biopsy or removal (e.g., by aspiration) can be used to obtain a source of cancer cells (for example, glioma cells, neuroblastoma cells, and the like). A mixture of primary cells can be obtained from the tissue, using methods readily practiced in the art, such as explanting or enzymatic digestion (for examples using enzymes such as pronase, trypsin, collagenase, elastase dispase, and chymotrypsin). Biopsy methods have also been described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,419,661 and PCT application publication WO 2001/32840, and each are hereby incorporated by reference.

Primary cells can be acquired from the individual to whom the genetically engineered primary or secondary cells are administered. However, primary cells can also be obtained from a donor, other than the recipient, of the same species. The cells can also be obtained from another species (for example, rabbit, cat, mouse, rat, sheep, goat, dog, horse, cow, bird, or pig). Primary cells can also include cells from a purified vertebrate tissue source grown attached to a tissue culture substrate (for example, flask or dish) or grown in a suspension; cells present in an explant derived from tissue; both of the aforementioned cell types plated for the first time; and cell culture suspensions derived from these plated cells. Secondary cells can be plated primary cells that are removed from the culture substrate and replated, or passaged, in addition to cells from the subsequent passages. Secondary cells can be passaged one or more times. These primary or secondary cells can contain expression vectors having a gene that encodes a FGFR fusion molecule.

Cell Culturing

Various culturing parameters can be used with respect to the host cell being cultured. Appropriate culture conditions for mammalian cells are well known in the art (Cleveland W L, et al., J Immunol Methods, 1983, 56(2): 221-234) or can be determined by the skilled artisan (see, for example, Animal Cell Culture: A Practical Approach 2nd Ed., Rickwood, D. and Hames, B. D., eds. (Oxford University Press: New York, 1992)). Cell culturing conditions can vary according to the type of host cell selected. Commercially available medium can be utilized. Non-limiting examples of medium include, for example, Minimal Essential Medium (MEM, Sigma, St. Louis, Mo.); Dulbecco's Modified Eagles Medium (DMEM, Sigma); Ham's F10 Medium (Sigma); HyClone cell culture medium (HyClone, Logan, Utah); RPMI-1640 Medium (Sigma); and chemically-defined (CD) media, which are formulated for various cell types, e.g., CD-CHO Medium (Invitrogen, Carlsbad, Calif.).

The cell culture media can be supplemented as necessary with supplementary components or ingredients, including optional components, in appropriate concentrations or amounts, as necessary or desired. Cell culture medium solutions provide at least one component from one or more of the following categories: (1) an energy source, usually in the form of a carbohydrate such as glucose; (2) all essential amino acids, and usually the basic set of twenty amino acids plus cysteine; (3) vitamins and/or other organic compounds required at low concentrations; (4) free fatty acids or lipids, for example linoleic acid; and (5) trace elements, where trace elements are defined as inorganic compounds or naturally occurring elements that can be required at very low concentrations, usually in the micromolar range.

The medium also can be supplemented electively with one or more components from any of the following categories: (1) salts, for example, magnesium, calcium, and phosphate; (2) hormones and other growth factors such as, serum, insulin, transferrin, and epidermal growth factor; (3) protein and tissue hydrolysates, for example peptone or peptone mixtures which can be obtained from purified gelatin, plant material, or animal byproducts; (4) nucleosides and bases such as, adenosine, thymidine, and hypoxanthine; (5) buffers, such as HEPES; (6) antibiotics, such as gentamycin or ampicillin; (7) cell protective agents, for example pluronic polyol; and (8) galactose. In one embodiment, soluble factors can be added to the culturing medium.

The mammalian cell culture that can be used with the present invention is prepared in a medium suitable for the type of cell being cultured. In one embodiment, the cell culture medium can be any one of those previously discussed (for example, MEM) that is supplemented with serum from a mammalian source (for example, fetal bovine serum (FBS)). In another embodiment, the medium can be a conditioned medium to sustain the growth of host cells.

Three-dimensional cultures can be formed from agar (such as Gey's Agar), hydrogels (such as matrigel, agarose, and the like; Lee et al., (2004) Biomaterials 25: 2461-2466) or polymers that are cross-linked. These polymers can comprise natural polymers and their derivatives, synthetic polymers and their derivatives, or a combination thereof. Natural polymers can be anionic polymers, cationic polymers, amphipathic polymers, or neutral polymers. Non-limiting examples of anionic polymers can include hyaluronic acid, alginic acid (alginate), carageenan, chondroitin sulfate, dextran sulfate, and pectin. Some examples of cationic polymers, include but are not limited to, chitosan or polylysine. (Peppas et al., (2006) Adv Mater. 18: 1345-60; Hoffman, A. S., (2002) Adv Drug Deliv Rev. 43: 3-12; Hoffman, A. S., (2001) Ann NY Acad Sci 944: 62-73). Examples of amphipathic polymers can include, but are not limited to collagen, gelatin, fibrin, and carboxymethyl chitin. Non-limiting examples of neutral polymers can include dextran, agarose, or pullulan. (Peppas et al., (2006) Adv Mater. 18: 1345-60; Hoffman, A. S., (2002) Adv Drug Deliv Rev. 43: 3-12; Hoffman, A. S., (2001) Ann NY Acad Sci 944: 62-73).

Cells to be cultured can harbor introduced expression vectors, such as plasmids. The expression vector constructs can be introduced via transformation, microinjection, transfection, lipofection, electroporation, or infection. The expression vectors can contain coding sequences, or portions thereof, encoding the proteins for expression and production. Expression vectors containing sequences encoding the produced proteins and polypeptides, as well as the appropriate transcriptional and translational control elements, can be generated using methods well known to and practiced by those skilled in the art. These methods include synthetic techniques, in vitro recombinant DNA techniques, and in vivo genetic recombination which are described in J. Sambrook et al., 2001, Molecular Cloning, A Laboratory Manual, Cold Spring Harbor Press, Plainview, N.Y. and in F. M. Ausubel et al., 1989, Current Protocols in Molecular Biology, John Wiley & Sons, New York, N.Y.

FGFR Fusion Molecule Inhibitors

The invention provides methods for use of compounds that decrease the expression level or activity of a FGFR fusion molecule in a subject. In addition, the invention provides methods for using compounds for the treatment of a gene-fusion associated cancer. In one embodiment, the gene-fusion associated cancer is an epithelial cancer. In one embodiment, the gene-fusion associated cancer comprises glioblastoma multiforme, breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, or colorectal carcinoma.

As used herein, a “FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor” refers to a compound that interacts with a FGFR fusion molecule of the invention and modulates its activity and/or its expression. For example, the compound can decrease the activity or expression of a FGFR fusion molecule. The compound can be an antagonist of a FGFR fusion molecule (e.g., a FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor). Some non-limiting examples of FGFR fusion molecule inhibitors include peptides (such as peptide fragments comprising a FGFR fusion molecule, or antibodies or fragments thereof), small molecules, and nucleic acids (such as siRNA or antisense RNA specific for a nucleic acid comprising a FGFR fusion molecule). Antagonists of a FGFR fusion molecule decrease the amount or the duration of the activity of an FGFR fusion protein. In one embodiment, the fusion protein comprises a tyrosine kinase domain of an FGFR protein fused to a polypeptide that constitutively activates the tyrosine kinase domain of the FGFR protein (e.g., FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, FGFR3-TACC3 or other FGFR-TACC), or a fusion protein comprises a transforming acidic coiled-coil (TACC) domain fused to a polypeptide with a tyrosine kinase domain, wherein the TACC domain constitutively activates the tyrosine kinase domain. Antagonists include proteins, nucleic acids, antibodies, small molecules, or any other molecule which decrease the activity of a FGFR fusion molecule.

The term “modulate,” as it appears herein, refers to a change in the activity or expression of a FGFR fusion molecule. For example, modulation can cause a decrease in protein activity, binding characteristics, or any other biological, functional, or immunological properties of a FGFR fusion molecule, such as an FGFR fusion protein.

In one embodiment, a FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor can be a peptide fragment of a FGFR fusion protein that binds to the protein itself.

For example, the FGFR fusion polypeptide can encompass any portion of at least about 8 consecutive amino acids of SEQ ID NOS: 79, 88, 150, 158-161, or 539-547. The fragment can comprise at least about 10 consecutive amino acids, at least about 20 consecutive amino acids, at least about 30 consecutive amino acids, at least about 40 consecutive amino acids, a least about 50 consecutive amino acids, at least about 60 consecutive amino acids, at least about 70 consecutive amino acids, at least about 75 consecutive amino acids, at least about 80 consecutive amino acids, at least about 85 consecutive amino acids, at least about 90 consecutive amino acids, at least about 95 consecutive amino acids, at least about 100 consecutive amino acids, at least about 200 consecutive amino acids, at least about 300 consecutive amino acids, at least about 400 consecutive amino acids, at least about 500 consecutive amino acids, at least about 600 consecutive amino acids, at least about 700 consecutive amino acids, or at least about 800 consecutive amino acids of SEQ ID NOS: 79, 88, 150, 158-161, or 539-547. Fragments include all possible amino acid lengths between about 8 and 100 about amino acids, for example, lengths between about 10 and about 100 amino acids, between about 15 and about 100 amino acids, between about 20 and about 100 amino acids, between about 35 and about 100 amino acids, between about 40 and about 100 amino acids, between about 50 and about 100 amino acids, between about 70 and about 100 amino acids, between about 75 and about 100 amino acids, or between about 80 and about 100 amino acids. These peptide fragments can be obtained commercially or synthesized via liquid phase or solid phase synthesis methods (Atherton et al., (1989) Solid Phase Peptide Synthesis: a Practical Approach. IRL Press, Oxford, England). The FGFR fusion peptide fragments can be isolated from a natural source, genetically engineered, or chemically prepared. These methods are well known in the art.

A FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor can be a protein, such as an antibody (monoclonal, polyclonal, humanized, chimeric, or fully human), or a binding fragment thereof, directed against a FGFR fusion molecule of the invention. An antibody fragment can be a form of an antibody other than the full-length form and includes portions or components that exist within full-length antibodies, in addition to antibody fragments that have been engineered. Antibody fragments can include, but are not limited to, single chain Fv (scFv), diabodies, Fv, and (Fab′)₂, triabodies, Fc, Fab, CDR1, CDR2, CDR3, combinations of CDR's, variable regions, tetrabodies, bifunctional hybrid antibodies, framework regions, constant regions, and the like (see, Maynard et al., (2000) Ann. Rev. Biomed. Eng. 2:339-76; Hudson (1998) Curr. Opin. Biotechnol. 9:395-402). Antibodies can be obtained commercially, custom generated, or synthesized against an antigen of interest according to methods established in the art (see U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,914,128, 5,780,597, 5,811,523; Roland E. Kontermann and Stefan Dübel (editors), Antibody Engineering, Vol. I & II, (2010) 2^(nd) ed., Springer; Antony S. Dimitrov (editor), Therapeutic Antibodies: Methods and Protocols (Methods in Molecular Biology), (2009), Humana Press; Benny Lo (editor) Antibody Engineering: Methods and Protocols (Methods in Molecular Biology), (2004) Humana Press, each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties). For example, antibodies directed to a FGFR fusion molecule can be obtained commercially from Abcam, Santa Cruz Biotechnology, Abgent, R&D Systems, Novus Biologicals, etc. Human antibodies directed to a FGFR fusion molecule (such as monoclonal, humanized, fully human, or chimeric antibodies) can be useful antibody therapeutics for use in humans. In one embodiment, an antibody or binding fragment thereof is directed against SEQ ID NOS: 79, 88, 150, 158-161, or 539-547.

Inhibition of RNA encoding a FGFR fusion molecule can effectively modulate the expression of a FGFR fusion molecule. Inhibitors are selected from the group comprising: siRNA; interfering RNA or RNAi; dsRNA; RNA Polymerase III transcribed DNAs; ribozymes; and antisense nucleic acids, which can be RNA, DNA, or an artificial nucleic acid.

Antisense oligonucleotides, including antisense DNA, RNA, and DNA/RNA molecules, act to directly block the translation of mRNA by binding to targeted mRNA and preventing protein translation. For example, antisense oligonucleotides of at least about 15 bases and complementary to unique regions of the DNA sequence encoding a FGFR fusion molecule can be synthesized, e.g., by conventional phosphodiester techniques (Dallas et al., (2006) Med. Sci. Monit. 12(4):RA67-74; Kalota et al., (2006) Handb. Exp. Pharmacol. 173:173-96; Lutzelburger et al., (2006) Handb. Exp. Pharmacol. 173:243-59). Antisense nucleotide sequences include, but are not limited to: morpholinos, 2′-O-methyl polynucleotides, DNA, RNA and the like.

siRNA comprises a double stranded structure containing from about 15 to about 50 base pairs, for example from about 21 to about 25 base pairs, and having a nucleotide sequence identical or nearly identical to an expressed target gene or RNA within the cell. The siRNA comprise a sense RNA strand and a complementary antisense RNA strand annealed together by standard Watson-Crick base-pairing interactions. The sense strand comprises a nucleic acid sequence which is substantially identical to a nucleic acid sequence contained within the target miRNA molecule. “Substantially identical” to a target sequence contained within the target mRNA refers to a nucleic acid sequence that differs from the target sequence by about 3% or less. The sense and antisense strands of the siRNA can comprise two complementary, single-stranded RNA molecules, or can comprise a single molecule in which two complementary portions are base-paired and are covalently linked by a single-stranded “hairpin” area. See also, McMnaus and Sharp (2002) Nat Rev Genetics, 3:737-47, and Sen and Blau (2006) FASEB J., 20:1293-99, the entire disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference.

The siRNA can be altered RNA that differs from naturally-occurring RNA by the addition, deletion, substitution and/or alteration of one or more nucleotides. Such alterations can include addition of non-nucleotide material, such as to the end(s) of the siRNA or to one or more internal nucleotides of the siRNA, or modifications that make the siRNA resistant to nuclease digestion, or the substitution of one or more nucleotides in the siRNA with deoxyribonucleotides. One or both strands of the siRNA can also comprise a 3′ overhang. As used herein, a 3′ overhang refers to at least one unpaired nucleotide extending from the 3′-end of a duplexed RNA strand. For example, the siRNA can comprise at least one 3′ overhang of from 1 to about 6 nucleotides (which includes ribonucleotides or deoxyribonucleotides) in length, or from 1 to about 5 nucleotides in length, or from 1 to about 4 nucleotides in length, or from about 2 to about 4 nucleotides in length. For example, each strand of the siRNA can comprise 3′ overhangs of dithymidylic acid (“TT”) or diuridylic acid (“uu”).

siRNA can be produced chemically or biologically, or can be expressed from a recombinant plasmid or viral vector (for example, see U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,294,504 and 7,422,896, the entire disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference). Exemplary methods for producing and testing dsRNA or siRNA molecules are described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2002/0173478 to Gewirtz, U.S. Pat. No. 8,071,559 to Hannon et al., and in U.S. Pat. No. 7,148,342 to Tolentino et al., the entire disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference.

In one embodiment, an siRNA directed to a human nucleic acid sequence comprising a FGFR fusion molecule can be generated against any one of SEQ ID NOS: 80-82, 84, 94-145, 515, 517, 519-527 or 530-538. In another embodiment, an siRNA directed to a human nucleic acid sequence comprising a breakpoint of an FGFR fusion molecule can be generated against any one of SEQ ID NOS: 1-77, 80-82, 84-145, 515, 517, 519-527 or 530-538. In one embodiment, the hairpin sequences targeting the FGFR3 gene comprise SEQ ID NOS: 182, 183, or 184.

RNA polymerase III transcribed DNAs contain promoters, such as the U6 promoter. These DNAs can be transcribed to produce small hairpin RNAs in the cell that can function as siRNA or linear RNAs, which can function as antisense RNA. The FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor can comprise ribonucleotides, deoxyribonucleotides, synthetic nucleotides, or any suitable combination such that the target RNA and/or gene is inhibited. In addition, these forms of nucleic acid can be single, double, triple, or quadruple stranded. (see for example Bass (2001) Nature, 411:428-429; Elbashir et al., (2001) Nature, 411:494 498; U.S. Pat. No. 6,509,154; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2003/0027783; and PCT Publication Nos. WO 00/044895, WO 99/032619, WO 00/01846, WO 01/029058, WO 00/044914).

FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor can be a small molecule that binds to a FGFR fusion protein described herein and disrupts its function. Small molecules are a diverse group of synthetic and natural substances generally having low molecular weights. They can be isolated from natural sources (for example, plants, fungi, microbes and the like), are obtained commercially and/or available as libraries or collections, or synthesized. Candidate small molecules that inhibit a FGFR fusion protein can be identified via in silico screening or high-through-put (HTP) screening of combinatorial libraries according to methods established in the art (e.g., see Potyrailo et al., (2011) ACS Comb Sci. 13(6):579-633; Mensch et al., (2009) J Pharm Sci. 98(12):4429-68; Schnur (2008) Curr Opin Drug Discov Devel. 11(3):375-80; and Jhoti (2007) Ernst Schering Found Symp Proc. (3):169-85, each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.) Most conventional pharmaceuticals, such as aspirin, penicillin, and many chemotherapeutics, are small molecules, can be obtained commercially, can be chemically synthesized, or can be obtained from random or combinatorial libraries as described below (see, e.g., Werner et al., (2006) Brief Funct. Genomic Proteomic 5(1):32-6).

Non-limiting examples of FGFR fusion molecule inhibitors include the FGFR inhibitors AZD4547 (see Gavine et al., (2012) Cancer Res, 72(8); 2045-56; see also PCT Application Publication No. WO 2008/075068, each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties); NVP-BGJ398 (see Guagnano et al., (2011) J. Med. Chem., 54:7066-7083; see also U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2008-0312248 A1, each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties); PD173074 (see Guagnano et al., (2011) J. Med. Chem., 54:7066-7083; see also Mohammadi et al., (1998) EMBO 1, 17:5896-5904, each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties); NF449 (EMD Millipore (Billerica, Mass.) Cat. No. 480420; see also Krejci, (2010) the Journal of Biological Chemistry, 285(27):20644-20653, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety); LY2874455 (Active Biochem; see Zhao et al. (2011) Mol Cancer Ther. (11):2200-10; see also PCT Application Publication No. WO 2010129509, each of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties); TKI258 (Dovitinib); BIBF-1120 (Intedanib-Vargatef); BMS-582664 (Brivanib alaninate); AZD-2171 (Cediranib); TSU-68 (Orantinib); AB-1010 (Masitinib); AP-24534 (Ponatinib); and E-7080 (by Eisai). A non-limiting example of an FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor includes the TACC inhibitor KHS101 (Wurdak et al., (2010) PNAS, 107(38): 16542-47, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety).

Structures of FGFR fusion molecule inhibitors useful for the invention include, but are not limited to: the FGFR inhibitor AZD4547,

Other FGFR inhibitors include, but are not limited to:

In other embodiments, the FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor comprises an oral pan-FGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor. In other embodiments, the FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor comprises JNJ-42756493. Structures of FGFR fusion molecule inhibitors useful for the invention include, but are not limited to: the FGFR inhibitor JNJ-42756493.

A structure of an FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor useful for the invention include, but is not limited to the TACC inhibitor KHS101,

Assessment and Therapeutic Treatment

The invention provides a method of decreasing the growth of a solid tumor in a subject. The tumor is associated with, but not limited to, glioblastoma multiforme, breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, or colorectal carcinoma. In another embodiment, the tumor is associated with, but not limited to, bladder carcinoma, squamous lung carcinoma and head and neck carcinoma. In one embodiment, the tumor is associated with, but not limited to, glioma. In one embodiment, the tumor is associated with, but not limited to, grade II or III glioma. In one embodiment, the tumor is associated with, but not limited to, IDH wild-type grade II or III glioma. In one embodiment, the method comprises detecting the presence of a FGFR fusion molecule in a sample obtained from a subject. In some embodiments, the sample is incubated with an agent that binds to an FGFR fusion molecule, such as an antibody, a probe, a nucleic acid primer, and the like. In further embodiments, the method comprises administering to the subject an effective amount of a FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor, wherein the inhibitor decreases the size of the solid tumor. In further embodiments, the method comprises further detecting the presence of IDH1 mutations, EGFR amplification, CDK4 amplification, or MDM2 amplification. In further embodiments, a FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor can be administered in combination with CDK4 inhibitors, MDM2 inhibitors, or a combination thereof.

The invention also provides a method for treating or preventing a gene-fusion associated cancer in a subject. In one embodiment, the gene-fusion associated cancer comprises an epithelial cancer. In one embodiment, the gene-fusion associated cancer comprises glioblastoma multiforme, breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, or colorectal carcinoma. In some embodiments, the epithelial cancer comprises bladder urothelial carcinoma, breast carcinoma, colorectal cancer, prostate carcinoma, lung squamous cell carcinoma, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, or a combination of the epithelial cancers described. In one embodiment, the gene-fusion associated cancer comprises glioma. In one embodiment, the gene-fusion associated cancer comprises grade II or III glioma. In one embodiment, the gene-fusion associated cancer comprises IDH wild-type grade II or III glioma. In one embodiment, the method comprises detecting the presence of a FGFR fusion molecule in a sample obtained from a subject, the presence of the fusion being indicative of a gene-fusion associated cancer, and, administering to the subject in need a therapeutic treatment against a gene-fusion associated cancer. In some embodiments, the sample is incubated with an agent that binds to an FGFR fusion molecule, such as an antibody, a probe, a nucleic acid primer, and the like. In further embodiments, the method comprises further detecting the presence of IDH1 mutations, EGFR amplification, CDK4 amplification, or MDM2 amplification. In further embodiments, an agent that binds to an FGFR fusion molecule can be administered in combination with CDK4 inhibitors, MDM2 inhibitors, or a combination thereof.

The invention also provides a method for decreasing in a subject in need thereof the expression level or activity of a fusion protein comprising the tyrosine kinase domain of an FGFR protein fused to a polypeptide that constitutively activates the tyrosine kinase domain of the FGFR protein. In some embodiments, the method comprises obtaining a biological sample from the subject. In some embodiments, the sample is incubated with an agent that binds to an FGFR fusion molecule, such as an antibody, a probe, a nucleic acid primer, and the like. In some embodiments, the method comprises administering to the subject a therapeutic amount of a composition comprising an admixture of a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier an inhibitor of the fusion protein of the invention. In one embodiment, the inhibitor is JNJ-42756493. In another embodiment, the method further comprises determining the fusion protein expression level or activity. In another embodiment, the method further comprises detecting whether the fusion protein expression level or activity is decreased as compared to the fusion protein expression level or activity prior to administration of the composition, thereby decreasing the expression level or activity of the fusion protein. In some embodiments, the fusion protein is an FGFR-TACC fusion protein. In further embodiments, the method comprises further detecting the presence of IDH1 mutations, EGFR amplification, CDK4 amplification, or MDM2 amplification.

The administering step in each of the claimed methods can comprise a drug administration, such as FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor (for example, a pharmaceutical composition comprising an antibody that specifically binds to a FGFR fusion molecule or a fragment thereof; a small molecule that specifically binds to a FGFR protein; a small molecule that specifically binds to a TACC protein; an antisense RNA or antisense DNA that decreases expression of a FGFR fusion molecule; a siRNA that specifically targets a gene encoding a FGFR fusion molecule; a small molecule such as JNJ-42756493; or a combination thereof). In one embodiment, the therapeutic molecule to be administered comprises a polypeptide of a FGFR fusion molecule, comprising at least about 75%, at least about 80%, at least about 85%, at least about 90%, at least about 93%, at least about 95%, at least about 97%, at least about 98%, at least about 99%, or 100% of the amino acid sequence of SEQ ID NOS: 79, 88, 150, 158-161, or 539-547 and exhibits the function of decreasing expression of such a protein, thus treating a gene fusion-associated cancer. In another embodiment, administration of the therapeutic molecule decreases the size of the solid tumor associated with glioblastoma multiforme, breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, colorectal carcinoma, bladder carcinoma, squamous lung carcinoma and head and neck carcinoma, glioma, grade II or III glioma, or IDH wild-type grade II or III glioma. In further embodiments, the therapeutic molecule can be administered in combination with CDK4 inhibitors, MDM2 inhibitors, or a combination thereof.

In another embodiment, the therapeutic molecule to be administered comprises an siRNA directed to a human nucleic acid sequence comprising a FGFR fusion molecule. In one embodiment, the siRNA is directed to any one of SEQ ID NOS: 80-82, 84, 94-145, 515, 517, 519-527, or 530-538. In another embodiment, the siRNA is directed to any one of SEQ ID NOS: 1-77, 80-82, 84-145, 515, 517, 519-527, or 530-538. In a further embodiment, the therapeutic molecule to be administered comprises an antibody or binding fragment thereof, which is directed against SEQ ID NOS: 79, 88, 150, 158-161, or 539-547. In some embodiments, the therapeutic molecule to be administered comprises a small molecule that specifically binds to a FGFR protein, such as AZD4547, NVP-BGJ398, PD173074, NF449, TK1258, BIBF-1120, BMS-582664, AZD-2171, TSU68, AB1010, AP24534, E-7080, or LY2874455. In some embodiments, the therapeutic molecule to be administered is JNJ-42756493. In other embodiments, the therapeutic molecule to be administered comprises a small molecule that specifically binds to a TACC protein, such as KHS101.

In one embodiment, the invention provides for the detection of a chromosomal rearrangement at given chromosomal coordinates. In another embodiment, the detection or determination comprises nucleic acid sequencing, selective hybridization, selective amplification, gene expression analysis, or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, the detection or determination comprises protein expression analysis, for example by western blot analysis, immunostaining, ELISA, or other antibody detection methods.

In one embodiment, the biological sample comprises neuronal cells, serum, bone marrow, blood, peripheral blood, lymph nodes, cerebro-spinal fluid, urine, a saliva sample, a buccal swab, a serum sample, a sputum sample, a lacrimal secretion sample, a semen sample, a vaginal secretion sample, a fetal tissue sample, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments the sample is a tissue sample. In some embodiments, the sample is a paraffin embedded tissue section. In some embodiments, the tissue sample is a tumor sample.

A FGFR fusion molecule, for example, a fusion between FGFR1, FGFR2, FGFR3, or any other FGFR, and TACC1, TACC2, TACC3 or any other TACC, can be determined at the level of the DNA, RNA, or polypeptide. Optionally, detection can be determined by performing an oligonucleotide ligation assay, a confirmation based assay, a hybridization assay, a sequencing assay, an allele-specific amplification assay, a microsequencing assay, a melting curve analysis, a denaturing high performance liquid chromatography (DHPLC) assay (for example, see Jones et al, (2000) Hum Genet., 106(6):663-8), or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, the detection is performed by sequencing all or part of a FGFR fusion molecule (e.g., a FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, FGFR3-TACC3 or other FGFR-TACC nucleic acid, or a FGFR1, TACC1, FGFR2, TACC2, FGFR3, TACC3 or other FGFR or TACC nucleic acid), or by selective hybridization or amplification of all or part of a FGFR fusion molecule (e.g., a FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, FGFR3-TACC3 or other FGFR-TACC nucleic acid, or a FGFR1, TACC1, FGFR2, TACC2, FGFR3, TACC3 or other FGFR or TACC nucleic acid). A FGFR fusion molecule specific amplification (e.g., a FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, FGFR3-TACC3 or other FGFR-TACC nucleic acid specific amplification) can be carried out before the fusion identification step.

The invention provides for a method of detecting a chromosomal alteration in a subject afflicted with a gene-fusion associated cancer. In one embodiment, the chromosomal alteration is an in-frame fused transcript described herein, for example an FGFR fusion molecule. In some embodiments, the chromosomal alteration is a chromosomal translocation, for example an FGFR fusion molecule. An alteration in a chromosome region occupied by a FGFR fusion molecule, such as a FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, FGFR3-TACC3 or other FGFR-TACC nucleic acid, can be any form of mutation(s), deletion(s), rearrangement(s) and/or insertions in the coding and/or non-coding region of the locus, alone or in various combination(s). Mutations can include point mutations. Insertions can encompass the addition of one or several residues in a coding or non-coding portion of the gene locus. Insertions can comprise an addition of between 1 and 50 base pairs in the gene locus. Deletions can encompass any region of one, two or more residues in a coding or non-coding portion of the gene locus, such as from two residues up to the entire gene or locus. Deletions can affect smaller regions, such as domains (introns) or repeated sequences or fragments of less than about 50 consecutive base pairs, although larger deletions can occur as well. Rearrangement includes inversion of sequences. The alteration in a chromosome region occupied by a FGFR fusion molecule, e.g., a FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, FGFR3-TACC3 or other FGFR-TACC nucleic acid, can result in amino acid substitutions, RNA splicing or processing, product instability, the creation of stop codons, production of oncogenic fusion proteins, frame-shift mutations, and/or truncated polypeptide production. The alteration can result in the production of a FGFR fusion molecule, for example, one encoded by a FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, FGFR3-TACC3 or other FGFR-TACC nucleic acid, with altered function, stability, targeting or structure. The alteration can also cause a reduction, or even an increase in protein expression. In one embodiment, the alteration in the chromosome region occupied by a FGFR fusion molecule can comprise a chromosomal rearrangement resulting in the production of a FGFR fusion molecule, such as a FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, FGFR3-TACC3 or other FGFR-TACC fusion. This alteration can be determined at the level of the DNA, RNA, or polypeptide. In another embodiment, the detection or determination comprises nucleic acid sequencing, selective hybridization, selective amplification, gene expression analysis, or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, the detection or determination comprises protein expression analysis, for example by western blot analysis, ELISA, immunostaining or other antibody detection methods. In one embodiment, the coordinates comprising FGFR1 translocations comprise chr8:38,268,656-38,325,363. In another embodiment, the coordinates comprising FGFR2 translocations comprise chr10:123,237,844-123,357,972. In a further embodiment, the coordinates comprising FGFR3 translocations comprise chr4:1,795,039-1,810,599. In yet another embodiment, the coordinates comprising FGFR4 translocations comprise chr5:176,513,921-176,525,126. In one embodiment, the coordinates comprising TACC1 translocations comprise chr8:38,644,722-38,710,546. In another embodiment, the coordinates comprising TACC2 translocations comprise chr10:123,748,689-124,014,057. In a further embodiment, the coordinates comprising TACC3 translocations comprise chr4:1,723,217-1,746,905.

The present invention provides a method for treating a gene-fusion associated cancer in a subject in need thereof. In one embodiment, the method comprises obtaining a sample from the subject to determine the level of expression of an FGFR fusion molecule in the subject. In some embodiments, the sample is incubated with an agent that binds to an FGFR fusion molecule, such as an antibody, a probe, a nucleic acid primer, and the like. In another embodiment, the detection or determination comprises nucleic acid sequencing, selective hybridization, selective amplification, gene expression analysis, or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, the detection or determination comprises protein expression analysis, for example by western blot analysis, immunostaining, ELISA, or other antibody detection methods. In some embodiments, the method further comprises assessing whether to administer a FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor based on the expression pattern of the subject. In further embodiments, the method comprises administering a FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor to the subject. In one embodiment, the FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor is JNJ-42756493. In one embodiment, the gene-fusion associated cancer comprises an epithelial cancer. In one embodiment, the gene-fusion associated cancer comprises glioblastoma multiforme, breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, or colorectal carcinoma. In some embodiments, the epithelial cancer comprises bladder urothelial carcinoma, breast carcinoma, colorectal cancer, prostate carcinoma, lung squamous cell carcinoma, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, or a combination of the epithelial cancers described. In one embodiment, the gene-fusion associated cancer comprises glioma, grade II or III glioma, or IDH wild-type grade II or III glioma. In further embodiments, the method comprises further detecting the presence of IDH1 mutations, EGFR amplification, CDK4 amplification, or MDM2 amplification. In further embodiments, a FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor can be administered in combination with CDK4 inhibitors, MDM2 inhibitors, or a combination thereof.

In one embodiment, the invention provides for a method of detecting the presence of altered RNA expression of an FGFR fusion molecule in a subject, for example one afflicted with a gene-fusion associated cancer. In another embodiment, the invention provides for a method of detecting the presence of an FGFR fusion molecule in a subject. In some embodiments, the method comprises obtaining a sample from the subject to determine whether the subject expresses an FGFR fusion molecule. In some embodiments, the sample is incubated with an agent that binds to an FGFR fusion molecule, such as an antibody, a probe, a nucleic acid primer, and the like. In other embodiments, the detection or determination comprises nucleic acid sequencing, selective hybridization, selective amplification, gene expression analysis, or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, the detection or determination comprises protein expression analysis, for example by western blot analysis, ELISA, or other antibody detection methods. In some embodiments, the method further comprises assessing whether to administer a FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor based on the expression pattern of the subject. In further embodiments, the method comprises administering a FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor to the subject. In one embodiment, the FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor is JNJ-42756493. Altered RNA expression includes the presence of an altered RNA sequence, the presence of an altered RNA splicing or processing, or the presence of an altered quantity of RNA. These can be detected by various techniques known in the art, including sequencing all or part of the RNA or by selective hybridization or selective amplification of all or part of the RNA. In a further embodiment, the method can comprise detecting the presence or expression of a FGFR fusion molecule, such as one encoded by a FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, FGFR3-TACC3 or other FGFR-TACC nucleic acid. Altered polypeptide expression includes the presence of an altered polypeptide sequence, the presence of an altered quantity of polypeptide, or the presence of an altered tissue distribution. These can be detected by various techniques known in the art, including by sequencing and/or binding to specific ligands (such as antibodies). In one embodiment, the detecting comprises using a northern blot; real time PCR and primers directed to SEQ ID NOS: 80-82, 84, 94-145, 515, 517, 519-527, or 530-538; a ribonuclease protection assay; a hybridization, amplification, or sequencing technique to detect an FGFR fusion molecule, such as one comprising SEQ ID NOS: 80-82, 84, 94-145, 515, 517, 519-527, or 530-538; or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, the PCR primers comprise SEQ ID NOS: 162, 163, 164, 165 166, 167, 168, 169, 495, 496, 497, 498, 507, 508, 509, 510, 511, 512, 513, or 514. In a further embodiment, primers used for the screening of FGFR fusion molecules, such as FGFR-TACC fusions, comprise SEQ ID NOS: 166, 167, 168, 169, 495, 496, 497, 498, 507, 508, 509, or 510. In some embodiments, primers used for genomic detection of an FGFR3-TACC3 fusion comprise SEQ ID NOS: 170 171, 499, 500, 501, 502, 503, 504, 505, or 506.

In some aspects of the invention, the method comprises further detecting the presence of IDH1 mutations, EGFR amplification, CDK4 amplification, or MDM2 amplification. MDM2 encodes a nuclear-localized E3 ubiquitin ligase. Alternative splicing results in a multitude of transcript variants, many of which may be expressed only in tumor cells. EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) is a transmembrane glycoprotein that is a member of the protein kinase superfamily. This protein is a receptor for members of the epidermal growth factor family. EGFR is a cell surface protein that binds to epidermal growth factor. Multiple alternatively spliced transcript variants that encode different protein isoforms have been found for this gene. CDK4 (cyclin dependent kinase 4) is a member of the Ser/Thr protein kinase family. It is a catalytic subunit of the protein kinase complex that is important for cell cycle G1 phase progression. The activity of this kinase is restricted to the G1-S phase, which is controlled by the regulatory subunits D-type cyclins and CDK inhibitor p16(INK4a). Multiple polyadenylation sites of this gene have been reported. IDH1 (isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (NADP+), soluble) catalyzes the oxidative decarboxylation of isocitrate to 2-oxoglutarate. Alternatively spliced transcript variants encoding the same protein have been found for this gene. IDH1 mutations, EGFR amplification, CDK4 amplification, or MDM2 amplification can be detected using various techniques know in the art, including, but not limited to sequencing and qPCR.

Various techniques known in the art can be used to detect or quantify altered gene or RNA expression or nucleic acid sequences, which include, but are not limited to, hybridization, sequencing, amplification, and/or binding to specific ligands (such as antibodies). Other suitable methods include allele-specific oligonucleotide (ASO), oligonucleotide ligation, allele-specific amplification, Southern blot (for DNAs), Northern blot (for RNAs), single-stranded conformation analysis (SSCA), PFGE, fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH), gel migration, clamped denaturing gel electrophoresis, denaturing HLPC, melting curve analysis, heteroduplex analysis, RNase protection, chemical or enzymatic mismatch cleavage, ELISA, radioimmunoassays (MA) and immuno-enzymatic assays (IEMA).

Some of these approaches (such as SSCA and constant gradient gel electrophoresis (CGGE)) are based on a change in electrophoretic mobility of the nucleic acids, as a result of the presence of an altered sequence. According to these techniques, the altered sequence is visualized by a shift in mobility on gels. The fragments can then be sequenced to confirm the alteration. Some other approaches are based on specific hybridization between nucleic acids from the subject and a probe specific for wild type or altered gene or RNA. The probe can be in suspension or immobilized on a substrate. The probe can be labeled to facilitate detection of hybrids. Some of these approaches are suited for assessing a polypeptide sequence or expression level, such as Northern blot, ELISA and RIA. These latter require the use of a ligand specific for the polypeptide, for example, the use of a specific antibody.

Hybridization.

Hybridization detection methods are based on the formation of specific hybrids between complementary nucleic acid sequences that serve to detect nucleic acid sequence alteration(s). A detection technique involves the use of a nucleic acid probe specific for a wild type or altered gene or RNA, followed by the detection of the presence of a hybrid. The probe can be in suspension or immobilized on a substrate or support (for example, as in nucleic acid array or chips technologies). The probe can be labeled to facilitate detection of hybrids. In one embodiment, the probe according to the invention can comprise a nucleic acid directed to SEQ ID NOS: 80-82, 84, 94-145, 515, 517, 519-527, or 530-538. For example, a sample from the subject can be contacted with a nucleic acid probe specific for a gene encoding a FGFR fusion molecule, and the formation of a hybrid can be subsequently assessed. In one embodiment, the method comprises contacting simultaneously the sample with a set of probes that are specific for an FGFR fusion molecule. Also, various samples from various subjects can be investigated in parallel.

According to the invention, a probe can be a polynucleotide sequence which is complementary to and specifically hybridizes with a, or a target portion of a, gene or RNA corresponding to a FGFR fusion molecule. Useful probes are those that are complementary to the gene, RNA, or target portion thereof. Probes can comprise single-stranded nucleic acids of between 8 to 1000 nucleotides in length, for instance between 10 and 800, between 15 and 700, or between 20 and 500. Longer probes can be used as well. A useful probe of the invention is a single stranded nucleic acid molecule of between 8 to 500 nucleotides in length, which can specifically hybridize to a region of a gene or RNA that corresponds to a FGFR fusion molecule.

The sequence of the probes can be derived from the sequences of the FGFR fusion genes provided herein. Nucleotide substitutions can be performed, as well as chemical modifications of the probe. Such chemical modifications can be accomplished to increase the stability of hybrids (e.g., intercalating groups) or to label the probe. Some examples of labels include, without limitation, radioactivity, fluorescence, luminescence, and enzymatic labeling.

A guide to the hybridization of nucleic acids is found in e.g., Sambrook, ed., Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual (3^(rd) Ed.), Vols. 1-3, Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, 1989; Current Protocols In Molecular Biology, Ausubel, ed. John Wiley & Sons, Inc., New York, 2001; Laboratory Techniques In Biochemistry And Molecular Biology: Hybridization With Nucleic Acid Probes, Part I. Theory and Nucleic Acid Preparation, Tijssen, ed. Elsevier, N.Y., 1993.

Sequencing.

Sequencing can be carried out using techniques well known in the art, using automatic sequencers. The sequencing can be performed on the complete FGFR fusion molecule or on specific domains thereof.

Amplification.

Amplification is based on the formation of specific hybrids between complementary nucleic acid sequences that serve to initiate nucleic acid reproduction. Amplification can be performed according to various techniques known in the art, such as by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), ligase chain reaction (LCR), strand displacement amplification (SDA) and nucleic acid sequence based amplification (NASBA). These techniques can be performed using commercially available reagents and protocols. Useful techniques in the art encompass real-time PCR, allele-specific PCR, or PCR based single-strand conformational polymorphism (SSCP). Amplification usually requires the use of specific nucleic acid primers, to initiate the reaction. For example, nucleic acid primers useful for amplifying sequences corresponding to a FGFR fusion molecule are able to specifically hybridize with a portion of the gene locus that flanks a target region of the locus. In one embodiment, amplification comprises using forward and reverse PCR primers directed to SEQ ID NOS: 80-82, 84, 94-145, 515, 517, 519-527, or 530-538. Nucleic acid primers useful for amplifying sequences from a FGFR fusion molecule (e.g., a FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, FGFR3-TACC3 or other FGFR-TACC nucleic acid); the primers specifically hybridize with a portion of an FGFR fusion molecule. In certain subjects, the presence of an FGFR fusion molecule corresponds to a subject with a gene fusion-associated cancer. In one embodiment, amplification can comprise using forward and reverse PCR primers comprising nucleotide sequences of SEQ ID NOS: 80-82, 84, 94-145, 515, 517, 519-527, or 530-538. In one embodiment, amplification can comprise using forward and reverse PCR primers comprising nucleotide sequences of SEQ ID NOS: 162-169, or 495-514.

Non-limiting amplification methods include, e.g., polymerase chain reaction, PCR (PCR Protocols, A Guide To Methods And Applications, ed. Innis, Academic Press, N.Y., 1990 and PCR Strategies, 1995, ed. Innis, Academic Press, Inc., N.Y.); ligase chain reaction (LCR) (Wu (1989) Genomics 4:560; Landegren (1988) Science 241:1077; Barringer (1990) Gene 89:117); transcription amplification (Kwoh (1989) PNAS 86:1173); and, self-sustained sequence replication (Guatelli (1990) PNAS 87:1874); Q Beta replicase amplification (Smith (1997) J. Clin. Microbiol. 35:1477-1491), automated Q-beta replicase amplification assay (Burg (1996) Mol. Cell. Probes 10:257-271) and other RNA polymerase mediated techniques (e.g., NASBA, Cangene, Mississauga, Ontario; see also Berger (1987) Methods Enzymol. 152:307-316; U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,683,195 and 4,683,202; and Sooknanan (1995) Biotechnology 13:563-564). All the references stated above are incorporated by reference in their entireties.

The invention provides for a nucleic acid primer, wherein the primer can be complementary to and hybridize specifically to a portion of a FGFR fusion molecule, such as a FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, FGFR3-TACC3 or other FGFR-TACC nucleic acid (e.g., DNA or RNA) in certain subjects having a gene fusion-associated cancer. In one embodiment, the gene-fusion associated cancer comprises glioblastoma multiforme, breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, or colorectal carcinoma. Primers of the invention can be specific for fusion sequences in a FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, FGFR3-TACC3 or other FGFR-TACC nucleic acid (DNA or RNA). By using such primers, the detection of an amplification product indicates the presence of a fusion of a FGFR1 and TACC1, FGFR2 and TACC2, FGFR3 and TACC3 or other FGFR and TACC nucleic acid. Examples of primers of this invention can be single-stranded nucleic acid molecules of about 5 to 60 nucleotides in length, or about 8 to about

-   -   nucleotides in length. The sequence can be derived directly from         the sequence of a FGFR fusion molecule, e.g. FGFR1-TACC1,         FGFR2-TACC2, FGFR3-TACC3 or other FGFR-TACC nucleic acid.         Perfect complementarity is useful to ensure high specificity;         however, certain mismatch can be tolerated. For example, a         nucleic acid primer or a pair of nucleic acid primers as         described above can be used in a method for detecting the         presence of a gene fusion-associated cancer in a subject. In one         embodiment, primers can be used to detect an FGFR fusion         molecule, such as a primer comprising SEQ ID NOS: 80-82, 84,         94-145, 515, 517, 519-527, or 530-538; or a combination thereof.         In another embodiment, the PCR primers comprise SEQ ID NOS: 162,         163, 164, 165, 166, 167, 168, 169, 495, 496, 497, 498, 507, 508,         509, 510, 511, 512, 513, or 514. In a further embodiment,         primers used for the screening of FGFR fusion molecules, such as         FGFR-TACC fusions, comprise SEQ ID NOS: 166, 167, 168, 169, 495,         496, 497, 498, 507, 508, 509, or 510. In some embodiments,         primers used for genomic detection of an FGFR3-TACC3 fusion         comprise SEQ ID NOS: 170, 171, 499, 500, 501, 502, 503, 504,         505, or 506. In one embodiment, the method can comprise         contacting a sample from the subject with primers specific for a         FGFR fusion molecule, and determining the presence of an PCR         product. In another embodiment, the method can comprise         contacting a sample from the subject with primer specific for a         FGFR molecule, or a TACC molecule, and determining the presence         of a PCR product. In another embodiment, the primers can         recognize the nucleic acids encoding a FGFR3 C-terminal region,         or nucleic acids encoding a TACC3 N-terminal region, or a         combination thereof. In another embodiment, the method can         comprise contacting a sample from the subject with primers         specific for a FGFR molecule, or a TACC molecule, or a FGFR         fusion molecule, and determining the amount of PCR product         formed compared to the amount of PCR product formed in non-tumor         cells or tissue, wherein an increased amount of PCR product         indicates the presence of an FGFR fusion. In one embodiment,         primers and/or the PCR product are labeled to enable detection         of the PCR product. For example, nucleic acid primers useful for         amplifying sequences corresponding to a FGFR fusion molecules         can be labeled with fluorescent molecules, radioactive         molecules, chemiluminescent molecules, or affinity molecules         (e.g. biotin) which can then be detected by methods known in the         art (e.g. fluorescently labeled streptavidin). PCR products can         also be detected by using dyes that can be incorporated into         newly formed PCR products, such as, but not limited to, SYBR         Green.

Specific Ligand Binding.

As discussed herein, a nucleic acid encoding a FGFR fusion molecule or expression of a FGFR fusion molecule, can also be detected by screening for alteration(s) in a sequence or expression level of a polypeptide encoded by the same. Different types of ligands can be used, such as specific antibodies. In one embodiment, the sample is contacted with an antibody specific for a polypeptide encoded by a FGFR fusion molecule and the formation of an immune complex is subsequently determined. Various methods for detecting an immune complex can be used, such as ELISA, immunostaining, radioimmunoassays (MA) and immuno-enzymatic assays (IEMA).

For example, an antibody can be a polyclonal antibody, a monoclonal antibody, as well as fragments or derivatives thereof having substantially the same antigen specificity. Fragments include Fab, Fab′2, or CDR regions. Derivatives include single-chain antibodies, humanized antibodies, or poly-functional antibodies. An antibody specific for a polypeptide encoded by a FGFR fusion molecule can be an antibody that selectively binds such a polypeptide. In one embodiment, the antibody is raised against a polypeptide encoded by a FGFR fusion molecule (such as FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, FGFR3-TACC3 or other FGFR-TACC fusion) or an epitope-containing fragment thereof. Although non-specific binding towards other antigens can occur, binding to the target polypeptide occurs with a higher affinity and can be reliably discriminated from non-specific binding. In one embodiment, the method can comprise contacting a sample from the subject with an antibody specific for a FGFR fusion molecule, and determining the presence of an immune complex. Optionally, the sample can be contacted to a support coated with antibody specific for a FGFR fusion molecule. In one embodiment, the sample can be contacted simultaneously, or in parallel, or sequentially, with various antibodies specific for different forms of a FGFR fusion molecule, e.g., FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2, FGFR3-TACC3 or other FGFR-TACC fusion.

In one embodiment, the method can comprise contacting a sample from the subject with an antibody specific for a FGFR fusion molecule, and determining the presence of an immune complex. In another embodiment, the method can comprise contacting a sample from the subject with an antibody specific for a FGFR molecule, or a TACC molecule, and determining the presence of an immune complex. In another embodiment, the antibody can recognize the FGFR3 C-terminal region, or the TACC3 N-terminal region, or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, the antibody can recognize the FGFR3 C-terminal region, or the TACC3 N-terminal region, or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, the method can comprise contacting a sample from the subject with an antibody specific for a FGFR molecule, or a TACC molecule, or a FGFR fusion molecule, and determining the amount of an immune complex formed compared to the amount of immune complex formed in non-tumor cells or tissue, wherein an increased amount of an immune complex indicates the presence of an FGFR fusion.

Detection the formation of a complex between an antibody and a protein can be performed by a variety of method known in the art. For example, an antibody-protein complex can be detected by using antibodies or secondary antibodies labeled with fluorescent molecules, chromogenic molecules, chemiluminescent molecules, radioactive isotopes, or affinity molecules (e.g. biotin) which can then be detected by methods known in the art (e.g. fluorescently labeled streptavidin).

The invention also provides for a diagnostic kit comprising products and reagents for detecting in a sample from a subject the presence of a FGFR fusion molecule. The kit can be useful for determining whether a sample from a subject exhibits increased or reduced expression of a FGFR fusion molecule. For example, the diagnostic kit according to the present invention comprises any primer, any pair of primers, any nucleic acid probe and/or any ligand, or any antibody directed specifically to a FGFR fusion molecule. The diagnostic kit according to the present invention can further comprise reagents and/or protocols for performing a hybridization, amplification, or antigen-antibody immune reaction. In one embodiment, the kit can comprise nucleic acid primers that specifically hybridize to and can prime a polymerase reaction from a FGFR fusion molecule comprising SEQ ID NOS: 80-82, 84, 94-145, 515, 517, 519-527, or 530-538, or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, primers can be used to detect a FGFR fusion molecule, such as a primer directed to SEQ ID NOS: 80-82, 84, 94-145, 515, 517, 519-527, or 530-538; or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, the PCR primer comprises SEQ ID NOS: 162, 163, 164, 165, 166, 167, 168, 169, 495, 496, 497, 498, 507, 508, 509, 510, 511, 512, 513, or 514. In a further embodiment, primers used for the screening of FGFR fusion molecules, such as FGFR-TACC fusions, comprise SEQ ID NOS: 166, 167, 168, 169, 495, 496, 497, 498, 507, 508, 509, or 510. In some embodiments, primers used for genomic detection of an FGFR3-TACC3 fusion comprise SEQ ID NOS: 170, 171, 499, 500, 501, 502, 503, 504, 505, or 506. In some embodiments, the kit comprises an antibody that specifically binds to a FGFR fusion molecule comprising SEQ ID NOS: 79, 85-89, 150, 158-161, or 539-547, wherein the antibody will recognize the protein only when a FGFR fusion molecule is present. The diagnosis methods can be performed in vitro, ex vivo, or in vivo. These methods utilize a sample from the subject in order to assess the status of a FGFR fusion molecule. The sample can be any biological sample derived from a subject, which contains nucleic acids or polypeptides. Examples of such samples include, but are not limited to, fluids, tissues, cell samples, organs, and tissue biopsies. Non-limiting examples of samples include blood, liver, plasma, serum, saliva, urine, or seminal fluid. In some embodiments the sample is a tissue sample. In some embodiments, the sample is a paraffin embedded tissue section. In some embodiments, the tissue sample is a tumor sample. The sample can be collected according to conventional techniques and used directly for diagnosis or stored. The sample can be treated prior to performing the method, in order to render or improve availability of nucleic acids or polypeptides for testing. Treatments include, for instance, lysis (e.g., mechanical, physical, or chemical), centrifugation. The nucleic acids and/or polypeptides can be pre-purified or enriched by conventional techniques, and/or reduced in complexity. Nucleic acids and polypeptides can also be treated with enzymes or other chemical or physical treatments to produce fragments thereof. In one embodiment, the sample is contacted with reagents, such as probes, primers, or ligands, in order to assess the presence of a FGFR fusion molecule. Contacting can be performed in any suitable device, such as a plate, tube, well, or glass. In some embodiments, the contacting is performed on a substrate coated with the reagent, such as a nucleic acid array or a specific ligand array. The substrate can be a solid or semi-solid substrate such as any support comprising glass, plastic, nylon, paper, metal, or polymers. The substrate can be of various forms and sizes, such as a slide, a membrane, a bead, a column, or a gel. The contacting can be made under any condition suitable for a complex to be formed between the reagent and the nucleic acids or polypeptides of the sample.

Nucleic Acid Delivery Methods

Delivery of nucleic acids into viable cells can be effected ex vivo, in situ, or in vivo by use of vectors, such as viral vectors (e.g., lentivirus, adenovirus, adeno-associated virus, or a retrovirus), or ex vivo by use of physical DNA transfer methods (e.g., liposomes or chemical treatments). Non-limiting techniques suitable for the transfer of nucleic acid into mammalian cells in vitro include the use of liposomes, electroporation, microinjection, cell fusion, DEAE-dextran, and the calcium phosphate precipitation method (See, for example, Anderson, Nature, 1998) supplement to 392(6679):250. Introduction of a nucleic acid or a gene encoding a polypeptide of the invention can also be accomplished with extrachromosomal substrates (transient expression) or artificial chromosomes (stable expression). Cells can also be cultured ex vivo in the presence of therapeutic compositions of the present invention in order to proliferate or to produce a desired effect on or activity in such cells. Treated cells can then be introduced in vivo for therapeutic purposes.

Nucleic acids can be inserted into vectors and used as gene therapy vectors. A number of viruses have been used as gene transfer vectors, including papovaviruses, e.g., SV40 (Madzak et al., (1992) J Gen Virol. 73(Pt 6):1533-6), adenovirus (Berkner (1992) Curr Top Microbiol Immunol. 158:39-66; Berkner (1988) Biotechniques, 6(7):616-29; Gorziglia and Kapikian (1992) J Virol. 66(7):4407-12; Quantin et al., (1992) Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 89(7):2581-4; Rosenfeld et al., (1992) Cell. 68(1):143-55; Wilkinson et al., (1992) Nucleic Acids Res. 20(9):2233-9; Stratford-Perricaudet et al., (1990) Hum Gene Ther. 1(3):241-56), vaccinia virus (Moss (1992) Curr Opin Biotechnol. 3(5):518-22), adeno-associated virus (Muzyczka, (1992) Curr Top Microbiol Immunol. 158:97-129; Ohi et al., (1990) Gene. 89(2):279-82), herpesviruses including HSV and EBV (Margolskee (1992) Curr Top Microbiol Immunol. 158:67-95; Johnson et al., (1992) Brain Res Mol Brain Res. 12(1-3):95-102; Fink et al., (1992) Hum Gene Ther. 3(1):11-9; Breakefield and Geller (1987) Mol Neurobiol. 1(4):339-71; Freese et al., (1990) Biochem Pharmacol. 40(10):2189-99), and retroviruses of avian (Bandyopadhyay and Temin (1984) Mol Cell Biol. 4(4):749-54; Petropoulos et al., (1992) J Virol. 66(6):3391-7), murine (Miller et al. (1992) Mol Cell Biol. 12(7):3262-72; Miller et al., (1985) J Virol. 55(3):521-6; Sorge et al., (1984) Mol Cell Biol. 4(9):1730-7; Mann and Baltimore (1985) J Virol. 54(2):401-7; Miller et al., (1988) J Virol. 62(11):4337-45), and human origin (Shimada et al., (1991) J Clin Invest. 88(3):1043-7; Helseth et al., (1990) J Virol. 64(12):6314-8; Page et al., (1990) J Virol. 64(11):5270-6; Buchschacher and Panganiban (1992) J Virol. 66(5):2731-9).

Non-limiting examples of in vivo gene transfer techniques include transfection with viral (e.g., retroviral) vectors (see U.S. Pat. No. 5,252,479, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety) and viral coat protein-liposome mediated transfection (Dzau et al., (1993) Trends in Biotechnology 11:205-210), incorporated entirely by reference). For example, naked DNA vaccines are generally known in the art; see Brower, (1998) Nature Biotechnology, 16:1304-1305, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Gene therapy vectors can be delivered to a subject by, for example, intravenous injection, local administration (see, e.g., U.S. Pat. No. 5,328,470) or by stereotactic injection (see, e.g., Chen, et al., (1994) Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 91:3054-3057). The pharmaceutical preparation of the gene therapy vector can include the gene therapy vector in an acceptable diluent, or can comprise a slow release matrix in which the gene delivery vehicle is imbedded. Alternatively, where the complete gene delivery vector can be produced intact from recombinant cells, e.g., retroviral vectors, the pharmaceutical preparation can include one or more cells that produce the gene delivery system.

For reviews of nucleic acid delivery protocols and methods see Anderson et al. (1992) Science 256:808-813; U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,252,479, 5,747,469, 6,017,524, 6,143,290, 6,410,010 6,511,847; and U.S. Application Publication No. 2002/0077313, which are all hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties. For additional reviews, see Friedmann (1989) Science, 244:1275-1281; Verma, Scientific American: 68-84 (1990); Miller (1992) Nature, 357: 455-460; Kikuchi et al. (2008) J Dermatol Sci. 50(2):87-98; Isaka et al. (2007) Expert Opin Drug Deliv. 4(5):561-71; Jager et al. (2007) Curr Gene Ther. 7(4):272-83; Waehler et al. (2007) Nat Rev Genet. 8(8):573-87; Jensen et al. (2007) Ann Med. 39(2):108-15; Herweijer et al. (2007) Gene Ther. 14(2):99-107; Eliyahu et al. (2005) Molecules 10(1):34-64; and Altaras et al. (2005) Adv Biochem Eng Biotechnol. 99:193-260, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entireties.

A FGFR fusion nucleic acid can also be delivered in a controlled release system. For example, the FGFR fusion molecule can be administered using intravenous infusion, an implantable osmotic pump, a transdermal patch, liposomes, or other modes of administration. In one embodiment, a pump can be used (see Sefton (1987) Biomed. Eng. 14:201; Buchwald et al. (1980) Surgery 88:507; Saudek et al. (1989) N. Engl. J. Med. 321:574). In another embodiment, polymeric materials can be used (see Medical Applications of Controlled Release, Langer and Wise (eds.), CRC Pres., Boca Raton, Fla. (1974); Controlled Drug Bioavailability, Drug Product Design and Performance, Smolen and Ball (eds.), Wiley, New York (1984); Ranger and Peppas, (1983) J Macromol. Sci. Rev. Macromol. Chem. 23:61; see also Levy et al. (1985) Science 228:190; During et al. (1989) Ann. Neurol. 25:351; Howard et al. (1989) J. Neurosurg. 71:105). In yet another embodiment, a controlled release system can be placed in proximity of the therapeutic target thus requiring only a fraction of the systemic dose (see, e.g., Goodson, in Medical Applications of Controlled Release, supra, vol. 2, pp. 115-138 (1984)). Other controlled release systems are discussed in the review by Langer (Science (1990) 249:1527-1533).

Pharmaceutical Compositions and Administration for Therapy

An inhibitor of the invention can be incorporated into pharmaceutical compositions suitable for administration, for example the inhibitor and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier

A FGFR fusion molecule or inhibitor of the invention (e.g. JNJ-42756493) can be administered to the subject once (e.g., as a single injection or deposition). Alternatively, a FGFR fusion molecule or inhibitor can be administered once or twice daily to a subject in need thereof for a period of from about two to about twenty-eight days, or from about seven to about ten days. A FGFR fusion molecule or inhibitor can also be administered once or twice daily to a subject for a period of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 times per year, or a combination thereof. A FGFR fusion molecule or inhibitor can also be administered in seven to ten day repeating cycles (i.e. administration of a FGFR fusion molecule or inhibitor for seven to ten days, followed by no administration of a FGFR fusion molecule or inhibitor for seven to ten days). Furthermore, a FGFR fusion molecule or inhibitor of the invention can be co-administrated with another therapeutic. Where a dosage regimen comprises multiple administrations, the effective amount of the FGFR fusion molecule or inhibitor administered to the subject can comprise the total amount of gene product administered over the entire dosage regimen.

A FGFR fusion molecule or inhibitor can be administered to a subject by any means suitable for delivering the FGFR fusion molecule or inhibitor to cells of the subject, such as cancer cells, e.g., glioblastoma multiforme, breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, colorectal carcinoma, bladder carcinoma, squamous lung carcinoma, head and neck carcinoma, glioma, grade II or III glioma, or IDH wild-type grade II or III glioma. For example, a FGFR fusion molecule or inhibitor can be administered by methods suitable to transfect cells. Transfection methods for eukaryotic cells are well known in the art, and include direct injection of the nucleic acid into the nucleus or pronucleus of a cell; electroporation; liposome transfer or transfer mediated by lipophilic materials; receptor mediated nucleic acid delivery, bioballistic or particle acceleration; calcium phosphate precipitation, and transfection mediated by viral vectors.

The compositions of this invention can be formulated and administered to reduce the symptoms associated with a gene fusion-associated cancer, e.g., glioblastoma multiforme, breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, colorectal carcinoma, bladder carcinoma, squamous lung carcinoma, head and neck carcinoma, glioma, grade II or III glioma, or IDH wild-type grade II or III glioma, by any means that produces contact of the active ingredient with the agent's site of action in the body of a subject, such as a human or animal (e.g., a dog, cat, or horse). They can be administered by any conventional means available for use in conjunction with pharmaceuticals, either as individual therapeutic active ingredients or in a combination of therapeutic active ingredients. They can be administered alone, but are generally administered with a pharmaceutical carrier selected on the basis of the chosen route of administration and standard pharmaceutical practice.

A therapeutically effective dose of FGFR fusion molecule or inhibitor (e.g. JNJ-42756493) can depend upon a number of factors known to those or ordinary skill in the art. The dose(s) of the FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor can vary, for example, depending upon the identity, size, and condition of the subject or sample being treated, further depending upon the route by which the composition is to be administered, if applicable, and the effect which the practitioner desires the a FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor to have upon the nucleic acid or polypeptide of the invention. For example, 12 mg of JNJ-42756493 can be orally administered daily. JNJ-42756493 can be administered in seven to ten day repeating cycles (i.e. administration of JNJ-42756493 for seven to ten days, followed by no administration of JNJ-42756493 for seven to ten days). These amounts can be readily determined by a skilled artisan. Any of the therapeutic applications described herein can be applied to any subject in need of such therapy, including, for example, a mammal such as a dog, a cat, a cow, a horse, a rabbit, a monkey, a pig, a sheep, a goat, or a human.

Pharmaceutical compositions for use in accordance with the invention can be formulated in conventional manner using one or more physiologically acceptable carriers or excipients. The therapeutic compositions of the invention can be formulated for a variety of routes of administration, including systemic and topical or localized administration. Techniques and formulations generally can be found in Remmington's Pharmaceutical Sciences, Meade Publishing Co., Easton, Pa. (20^(th) Ed., 2000), the entire disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference. For systemic administration, an injection is useful, including intramuscular, intravenous, intraperitoneal, and subcutaneous. For injection, the therapeutic compositions of the invention can be formulated in liquid solutions, for example in physiologically compatible buffers such as Hank's solution or Ringer's solution. In addition, the therapeutic compositions can be formulated in solid form and redissolved or suspended immediately prior to use. Lyophilized forms are also included. Pharmaceutical compositions of the present invention are characterized as being at least sterile and pyrogen-free. These pharmaceutical formulations include formulations for human and veterinary use.

According to the invention, a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier can comprise any and all solvents, dispersion media, coatings, antibacterial and antifungal agents, isotonic and absorption delaying agents, and the like, compatible with pharmaceutical administration. The use of such media and agents for pharmaceutically active substances is well known in the art. Any conventional media or agent that is compatible with the active compound can be used. Supplementary active compounds can also be incorporated into the compositions.

A pharmaceutical composition containing FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor can be administered in conjunction with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier, for any of the therapeutic effects discussed herein. Such pharmaceutical compositions can comprise, for example antibodies directed to a FGFR fusion molecule, or a variant thereof, or antagonists of a FGFR fusion molecule, or JNJ-42756493. The compositions can be administered alone or in combination with at least one other agent, such as a stabilizing compound, which can be administered in any sterile, biocompatible pharmaceutical carrier including, but not limited to, saline, buffered saline, dextrose, and water. The compositions can be administered to a patient alone, or in combination with other agents, drugs or hormones.

Sterile injectable solutions can be prepared by incorporating the FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor (e.g., a polypeptide or antibody) in the required amount in an appropriate solvent with one or a combination of ingredients enumerated herein, as required, followed by filtered sterilization. Generally, dispersions are prepared by incorporating the active compound into a sterile vehicle which contains a basic dispersion medium and the required other ingredients from those enumerated herein. In the case of sterile powders for the preparation of sterile injectable solutions, examples of useful preparation methods are vacuum drying and freeze-drying which yields a powder of the active ingredient plus any additional desired ingredient from a previously sterile-filtered solution thereof.

In some embodiments, the FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor can be applied via transdermal delivery systems, which slowly releases the active compound for percutaneous absorption. Permeation enhancers can be used to facilitate transdermal penetration of the active factors in the conditioned media. Transdermal patches are described in for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,407,713; 5,352,456; 5,332,213; 5,336,168; 5,290,561; 5,254,346; 5,164,189; 5,163,899; 5,088,977; 5,087,240; 5,008,110; and 4,921,475.

“Subcutaneous” administration can refer to administration just beneath the skin (i.e., beneath the dermis). Generally, the subcutaneous tissue is a layer of fat and connective tissue that houses larger blood vessels and nerves. The size of this layer varies throughout the body and from person to person. The interface between the subcutaneous and muscle layers can be encompassed by subcutaneous administration. This mode of administration can be feasible where the subcutaneous layer is sufficiently thin so that the factors present in the compositions can migrate or diffuse from the locus of administration. Thus, where intradermal administration is utilized, the bolus of composition administered is localized proximate to the subcutaneous layer.

Administration of the cell aggregates (such as DP or DS aggregates) is not restricted to a single route, but can encompass administration by multiple routes. For instance, exemplary administrations by multiple routes include, among others, a combination of intradermal and intramuscular administration, or intradermal and subcutaneous administration. Multiple administrations can be sequential or concurrent. Other modes of application by multiple routes will be apparent to the skilled artisan.

In other embodiments, this implantation method will be a one-time treatment for some subjects. In further embodiments of the invention, multiple cell therapy implantations will be required. In some embodiments, the cells used for implantation will generally be subject-specific genetically engineered cells. In another embodiment, cells obtained from a different species or another individual of the same species can be used. Thus, using such cells can require administering an immunosuppressant to prevent rejection of the implanted cells. Such methods have also been described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,419,661 and PCT application publication WO 2001/32840, and are hereby incorporated by reference.

A pharmaceutical composition of the invention is formulated to be compatible with its intended route of administration. Examples of routes of administration include parenteral, e.g., intravenous, intradermal, subcutaneous, oral (e.g., inhalation or ingestion), transdermal (topical), transmucosal, and rectal administration. For example, JNJ-42756493 can be orally administered. Solutions or suspensions used for parenteral, intradermal, or subcutaneous application can include the following components: a sterile diluent such as water for injection, saline solution, fixed oils, polyethylene glycols, glycerine, propylene glycol or other synthetic solvents; antibacterial agents such as benzyl alcohol or methyl parabens; antioxidants such as ascorbic acid or sodium bisulfite; chelating agents such as ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid; buffers such as acetates, citrates or phosphates and agents for the adjustment of tonicity such as sodium chloride or dextrose. pH can be adjusted with acids or bases, such as hydrochloric acid or sodium hydroxide. The parenteral preparation can be enclosed in ampoules, disposable syringes or multiple dose vials made of glass or plastic.

Pharmaceutical compositions suitable for injectable use include sterile aqueous solutions (where water soluble) or dispersions and sterile powders for the extemporaneous preparation of sterile injectable solutions or dispersions. For intravenous administration, suitable carriers include physiological saline, bacteriostatic water, or phosphate buffered saline (PBS). In all cases, the composition must be sterile and should be fluid to the extent that easy syringability exists. It must be stable under the conditions of manufacture and storage and must be preserved against the contaminating action of microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. The carrier can be a solvent or dispersion medium containing, for example, water, ethanol, a pharmaceutically acceptable polyol like glycerol, propylene glycol, liquid polyethylene glycol, and suitable mixtures thereof. The proper fluidity can be maintained, for example, by the use of a coating such as lecithin, by the maintenance of the required particle size in the case of dispersion and by the use of surfactants. Prevention of the action of microorganisms can be achieved by various antibacterial and antifungal agents, for example, parabens, chlorobutanol, phenol, ascorbic acid, thimerosal, and the like. In many cases, it can be useful to include isotonic agents, for example, sugars, polyalcohols such as mannitol, sorbitol, sodium chloride in the composition. Prolonged absorption of the injectable compositions can be brought about by including in the composition an agent which delays absorption, for example, aluminum monostearate and gelatin.

Sterile injectable solutions can be prepared by incorporating the inhibitor (e.g., a polypeptide or antibody or small molecule) of the invention in the required amount in an appropriate solvent with one or a combination of ingredients enumerated herein, as required, followed by filtered sterilization. Generally, dispersions are prepared by incorporating the active compound into a sterile vehicle which contains a basic dispersion medium and the required other ingredients from those enumerated herein. In the case of sterile powders for the preparation of sterile injectable solutions, examples of useful preparation methods are vacuum drying and freeze-drying which yields a powder of the active ingredient plus any additional desired ingredient from a previously sterile-filtered solution thereof.

Oral compositions (e.g. of JNJ-42756493) generally include an inert diluent or an edible carrier. They can be enclosed in gelatin capsules or compressed into tablets. For the purpose of oral therapeutic administration, the active compound can be incorporated with excipients and used in the form of tablets, troches, or capsules. Oral compositions can also be prepared using a fluid carrier and subsequently swallowed.

Pharmaceutically compatible binding agents, and/or adjuvant materials can be included as part of the composition. The tablets, pills, capsules, troches and the like can contain any of the following ingredients, or compounds of a similar nature: a binder such as microcrystalline cellulose, gum tragacanth or gelatin; an excipient such as starch or lactose, a disintegrating agent such as alginic acid, Primogel, or corn starch; a lubricant such as magnesium stearate or sterotes; a glidant such as colloidal silicon dioxide; a sweetening agent such as sucrose or saccharin; or a flavoring agent such as peppermint, methyl salicylate, or orange flavoring.

Systemic administration can also be by transmucosal or transdermal means. For transmucosal or transdermal administration, penetrants appropriate to the barrier to be permeated are used in the formulation. Such penetrants are generally known in the art, and include, for example, for transmucosal administration, detergents, bile salts, and fusidic acid derivatives. Transmucosal administration can be accomplished through the use of nasal sprays or suppositories. For transdermal administration, the active compounds are formulated into ointments, salves, gels, or creams as generally known in the art.

In some embodiments, the effective amount of the administered FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor (e.g. JNJ-42756493) is at least about 0.0001 μg/kg body weight, at least about 0.00025 μg/kg body weight, at least about 0.0005 μg/kg body weight, at least about 0.00075 μg/kg body weight, at least about 0.001 μg/kg body weight, at least about 0.0025 μg/kg body weight, at least about 0.005 μg/kg body weight, at least about 0.0075 μg/kg body weight, at least about 0.01 μg/kg body weight, at least about 0.025 μg/kg body weight, at least about 0.05 μg/kg body weight, at least about 0.075 μg/kg body weight, at least about 0.1 μg/kg body weight, at least about 0.25 μg/kg body weight, at least about 0.5 μg/kg body weight, at least about 0.75 μg/kg body weight, at least about 1 μg/kg body weight, at least about 5 μg/kg body weight, at least about 10 μg/kg body weight, at least about 25 μg/kg body weight, at least about 50 μg/kg body weight, at least about 75 μg/kg body weight, at least about 100 μg/kg body weight, at least about 150 μg/kg body weight, at least about 200 μg/kg body weight, at least about 250 μg/kg body weight, at least about 300 μg/kg body weight, at least about 350 μg/kg body weight, at least about 400 μg/kg body weight, at least about 450 μg/kg body weight, at least about 500 μg/kg body weight, at least about 550 μg/kg body weight, at least about 600 μg/kg body weight, at least about 650 μg/kg body weight, at least about 700 μg/kg body weight, at least about 750 μg/kg body weight, at least about 800 μg/kg body weight, at least about 850 μg/kg body weight, at least about 900 μg/kg body weight, at least about 950 μg/kg body weight, at least about 1,000 μg/kg body weight, at least about 2,000 μg/kg body weight, at least about 3,000 μg/kg body weight, at least about 4,000 μg/kg body weight, at least about 5,000 μg/kg body weight, at least about 6,000 μg/kg body weight, at least about 7,000 μg/kg body weight, at least about 8,000 μg/kg body weight, at least about 9,500 μg/kg body weight, or at least about 10,000 μg/kg body weight.

In some embodiments, the effective amount of the administered FGFR fusion molecule inhibitor (e.g. JNJ-42756493) is at least about 1 mg, 2 mg, 3 mg, 4 mg, 5 mg, 6 mg, 7 mg, 8 mg, 9 mg, 10 mg, 11 mg, 12 mg, 14 mg, 15 mg, 16 mg, 17 mg, 18 mg, 19 mg, 20 mg, 21 mg, 22 mg, 23 mg, 24 mg, 25 mg, 26 mg, 27 mg, 28 mg, 29 mg, 30 mg.

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Exemplary methods and materials are described below, although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also be used in the practice or testing of the present invention.

All publications and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety, as if each individual publication or reference were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Publications and references cited herein are not admitted to be prior art.

EXAMPLES

Examples are provided below to facilitate a more complete understanding of the invention. The following examples illustrate the exemplary modes of making and practicing the invention. However, the scope of the invention is not limited to specific embodiments disclosed in these Examples, which are for purposes of illustration only, since alternative methods can be utilized to obtain similar results.

The invention is further illustrated in Singh et al., Science (2012), 337(6099):1231-5 (including the accompanying Supplementary Information). The entire contents of Singh et al., Science (2012), 337(6099):1231-5, including the accompanying “Supplementary Information,” is expressly incorporated by reference. The invention is also further illustrated in Di Stefano et al., “Detection, characterization and inhibition of FGFR-TACC fusions in IDH wild type glioma” Clin. Cancer Res. (2015), the entire contents of which are expressly incorporated by reference.

Example 1: Transforming and Recurrent Fusions of FGFR and TACC Gene in Glioblastoma

The history of successful targeted therapy of cancer largely coincides with the inactivation of recurrent, oncogenic and addicting gene fusions in hematological malignancies and recently in some types of epithelial cancer. Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is among the most lethal forms of human cancer. Here, an integrated gene fusion discovery pipeline was developed for the detection of in-frame fused transcripts from RNA-seq and genomic fusions from whole exome sequences. The application of the pipeline to human GBM unraveled recurrent chromosomal translocations, which fuse in-frame the tyrosine kinase domain of FGFR genes (FGFR1 or FGFR3) to the TACC domain of TACC1 or TACC3, respectively. The frequency of FGFR-TACC fusions is 3 of 97 GBM (3.1%). The FGFR-TACC fusion protein displays strong oncogenic activity when introduced into astrocytes or transduced by lentivirus-mediated stereotactic delivery to the adult mouse brain. The FGFR-TACC fusion protein mis-localizes over the mitotic spindle pole, has constitutive tyrosine kinase activity and dysregulates the mitotic cycle with delayed mitotic progression. The impaired mitotic fidelity triggers chromatid cohesion defects, defective spindle checkpoint activation, chromosomal mis-segregation, and rampant aneuploidy. Inhibition of FGFR kinase corrects the aneuploidy and oral administration of a specific FGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor under clinical investigation arrests tumor growth and prolongs survival of mice harboring intracranial FGFR3-TACC3-initiated glioma. FGFR-TACC fusions identify a subset of GBM patients who may benefit from targeted inhibition of the tyrosine kinase activity of FGFR.

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is among the most difficult forms of cancer to treat in humans (Ohgaki and Kleihues, 2005). So far, the targeted therapeutic approaches that have been tested against potentially important oncogenic drivers in GBM have met limited success (Lo, 2010; Reardon et al., 2010; van den Bent et al., 2009). Recurrent chromosomal translocations leading to production of oncogenic fusion proteins are viewed as initiating and addicting events in the pathogenesis of human cancer, thus providing the most desirable molecular targets for cancer therapy (Ablain et al., 2011; Mitelman et al., 2007). Chromosomal rearrangements resulting in recurrent and oncogenic gene fusions are hallmarks of hematological malignancies and recently they have also been uncovered in subsets of solid tumors (breast, prostate, lung and colorectal carcinoma), but they have not been found in GBM (Bass et al., 2011; Prensner and Chinnaiyan, 2009). Important and successful targeted therapeutic interventions for patients whose tumors carry these rearrangements have stemmed from the discovery of functional gene fusions, especially when the translocations involve kinase-coding genes (BCR-ABL, EML4-ALK) (Druker, 2009; Gerber and Minna, 2010).

A hallmark of GBM is rampant chromosomal instability (CIN), which leads to aneuploidy (Furnari et al., 2007). CIN and aneuploidy are early events in the pathogenesis of cancer (Cahill et al., 1999). It has been suggested that genetic alterations targeting mitotic fidelity might be responsible for mis-segregation of chromosomes during mitosis, resulting in aneuploidy (Gordon et al., 2012; Solomon et al., 2011). Here, the first cases of recurrent and oncogenic gene fusions in human GBM are described. The resulting fusion protein localizes to mitotic cells, disrupts the normal control of chromosome segregation and induces aneuploidy. A therapeutic strategy with FGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors is also reported for the targeted therapy of GBM patients harboring these chromosomal rearrangements.

Identification of Recurrent Fusions of FGFR and TACC Genes.

To identify genomic rearrangements in GBM that generate functional fusion proteins and are recurrent, gene pairs discovered as in-frame fused transcripts from the analysis of massively parallel, paired-end sequencing of expressed transcripts (RNA-seq) would also emerge as fused gene pairs from the genomic analysis of human GBM. Towards this aim, two complementary gene fusion discovery methods were devised and were applied to two GBM cohorts. The first, TX-Fuse, is an algorithm for the discovery of candidate fusion transcripts from RNA-seq (FIG. 8). The second, Exome-Fuse, detects fusion genes from whole exome DNA sequences (FIG. 8). As first step for the detection of fused transcripts, RNA-seq data was generated from short-term cultures of glioma stem-like cells (GSCs) freshly isolated from nine patients carrying primary GBM. The culture of primary GBM tumors under serum-free conditions selects cells that retain phenotypes and genotypes closely mirroring primary tumor profiles as compared to serum-cultured glioma cell lines that have largely lost their developmental identities (Lee et al., 2006). Therefore, without being bound by theory, if glioma cells carry gene fusions causally responsible for the most aggressive hallmarks of GBM, they should be selected in GSCs. RNA-seq generated an average of 60.3 million paired reads for each GSC culture, of which over 80% were mapped to the reference transcriptome and genome. TX-Fuse detects two main sources of evidence: split reads and split inserts (see Experimental Procedures). The application of TX-Fuse to the RNA-seq dataset from nine GSCs led to the discovery of five candidate rearrangements (all of which were intrachromosomal) that give rise to in-frame fusion transcripts (Table 1B).

TABLE 1B Predicted in-frame fusion proteins from RNA-Seq of nine GSCs # Split # Split Tx Tx Inserts Reads Sample Gene 1 Gene 2 Ref Seq 1 Ref Seq 2 Pos 1 Pos 2 294 76 GSC- FGFR3 TACC3 NM_000142 NM_006342 2530 1751 1123 37 54 GSC- POLR2A WRAP53 NM_000937 NM_001143990 479 798 0114 7 48 GSC- CAPZB UBR4 NM_001206540 NM_020765 228 12111 0114 8 29 GSC- ST8SIA4 PAM NM_005668 NM_000919 1125 730 0517 6 17 GSC- PIGU NCOA6 NM_080476 NM_014071 729 6471 0308 1 6 GSC- IFNAR2 IL10RB NM_000874 NM_000628 1083 149 0127 # Split # Split Strand hg19_ Inserts Reads Sample Chr 1 Strand 1 hg19_GenPos 1 Chr 2 2 GenPos 2 294 76 GSC- 4 + 1808842 4 + 1737004 1123 37 54 GSC- 17 + 7399259 17 + 7604059 0114 7 48 GSC- 1 − 19712098 1 − 19433440 0114 8 29 GSC- 5 − 100147809 5 + 102260661 0517 6 17 GSC- 20 − 33203914 20 − 33303130 0308 1 6 GSC- 21 + 34632901 21 + 34640699 0127

Next, genomic rearrangements leading to gene fusions were identified in GBM by applying Exome-Fuse to a dataset of paired-end exome DNA sequences from 84 GBM samples from TCGA (Table 2).

This analysis detected 147 paired gene fusions, thus producing an average of 1.75 gene fusion events per tumor (Table 3).

The FGFR and TACC families of genes were markedly enriched among those recurrently involved in genomic fusions, with eight tumors harboring FGFR rearrangements and seven tumors harboring fusions that implicate TACC genes (FIG. 1A). The comparative analysis of the TX-Fuse and Exon-Fuse outputs revealed that FGFR3-TACC3 was the only fusion pair identified as either an in-frame transcript by TX-Fuse and genomic fusions by Exome-Fuse (Tables 1B, 2 and 3).

Table 2 shows fusion breakpoint information of recurrent gene fusions identified by Exome-fuse analysis of 84 GBM from TCGA. As multiple junctions may exist in each fusion candidate, information for all breakpoints is displayed. Column definitions include: sample=TCGA sample ID, virtForSplitReads/virtRevSplitReads/virtTotSplitReads=# forward/reverse/total split reads, splitInserts=# split inserts, dirA/dirB=forward (1) or reverse (0) direction of split read portion mapping to gene A/B, dirAB_matepair=direction of mate pair of split read, cosmicA+B=# recorded mutations of gene A+B in COSMIC.

TABLE 2 Fusion breakpoint information of recurrent gene fusions identified by Exome-fuse analysis of 84 GBM from TCGA. Sample

geneA chrA

gene B chr B

TGCA-06-6390 10 9 19 8 FGFR3 chr4 + 1773521 TACC3 chr4 + 1708787 1 1 0 2803 TCGA-12-0826 5 6 11 5 FGFR3 chr4 + 1778502 TACC3 chr4 + 1707185 0 0 1 2803 TCGA-19-5958 3 0 3 2 FGFR3 chr4 + 1778539 TACC3 chr4 + 1707203 0 1 1 2803 TCGA-27-1835 11 1 12 4 FGFR3 chr4 + 1773595 TACC3 chr4 + 1709397 0 0 2 2803 TCGA-12-0820 7 2 9 4 FGFR3 chr4 + 1779184 PRK62 chr4 + 82338347 1 1 0 2805 TCGA-12-1088 3 1 4 4 ABL1 chr9 + 132597569 TNFRSF10B chr8 − 22936252 0 0 1 892 TCGA-06-1802 7 1 3 8 ADAM12 chr10 − 127698245 PTPRD chr9 − 8596127 0 1 1 54 TCGA-06-1801 7 0 7 5 HIP1 chr7 − 75010010 PTPRD chr9 − 9387093 1 0 0 52 TCGA-12-1088 3 0 3 3 KIDINS220 chr2 − 8886300 PPP1R3A chr7 − 113305567 0 0 1 45 TCGA-12-1088 37 1 38 10 KIDINS220 chr2 − 8887075 PPP1R3A chr7 − 113305191 1 1 0 45 TCGA-32-2491 2 17 19 6 ODZ1 chrX − 123342503 STAG2 chrX + 123019118 0 1 0 36 TCGA-32-2491 11 1 12 10 ODZ1 chrX − 123526882 SASH3 chrX + 128749198 2 0 0 34 TCGA-12-0829 24 0 24 13 LRRK2 chr12 + 39032542 VSNL1 chr2 + 17630556 2 1 0 32 TCGA-12-0329 25 1 26 13 LRRK2 chr12 + 38975444 VSNL1 chr2 + 17639377 1 0 0 32 TCGA-12-0829 87 16 103 58 LRRK2 chr12 + 38975652 VSNL1 chr2 + 17639552 0 1 1 32 TCGA-19-0957 3 2 5 6 NUDT19 chr19 + 37891921 ODZ1 chrX − 123925223 1 0 0 32 TCGA-12-1088 12 1 13 5 GLI3 chr7 − 42031380 RIMBP2 chr12 − 129517282 1 0 0 31 TCGA-12-1088 5 0 5 1 GLI3 chr7 − 42031574 RIMPP2 chr12 − 129517455 0 1 1 31 TCGA-12-1089 10 0 10 5 AHNAK chr11 − 62056459 C21orf29 chr21 − 44923276 0 1 1 30 TCGA-06-1801 27 1 28 12 CROCC chr1 + 17171362 CSMD2 chr1 − 34381139 1 0 0 29 TCGA-12-1089 12 1 13 6 CLK3 chr15 + 72705401 LRP1 chr12 + 55880002 0 1 1 28 TCGA-12-1089 14 2 16 8 CLK3 chr15 + 72705248 LRP1 chr12 + 55879646 2 0 0 28 TCGA-12-1089 42 5 47 24 LAMA2 chr6 + 129836071 PDE10A chr6 − 165358426 1 0 0 28 TCGA-06-1802 48 9 57 27 LAMA2 chr6 + 129483265 SEC14L3 chr22 − 29193005 1 1 0 27 TCGA-19-0957 4 16 20 6 CSMD2 chr1 − 34115076 MDH2 chr7 + 75525221 0 0 1 27 TCGA-06-1801 21 1 22 4 FAM192A chr16 − 55757701 LRP1 chr12 + 55858598 0 0 1 26 TCGA-12-1089 27 0 27 2 FGFR4 chr5 + 176447670 LILRB1 chr19 + 59840807 1 0 0 25 TCGA-19-0957 0 1 1 4 EML1 chr14 + 99349006 NRXN3 chr14 + 79233969 1 0 0 24 TCGA-06-1801 19 133 152 51 NHSL2 chrX + 71082676 TAF1 chrX + 70520522 1 0 0 22 TCGA-06-1801 51 3 54 8 NHSL2 chrX + 71083319 TAF1 chrX + 70521607 1 0 1 22 TCGA-12-1089 9 0 9 4 CACNA1C chr12 + 2325330 ITGAV chr2 + 187195411 0 0 2 22 TCGA-19-0957 8 1 9 0 CDH11 chr16 − 63579650 RERE chr1 − 8538774 0 0 1 22 TCGA-12-0829 12 3 15 4 ENTPD2 chr9 − 139062591 FREM2 chr13 + 38318644 1 1 0 21 TCGA-12-0829 2 3 5 1 EFS chr14 − 22896776 NRXN3 chr14 + 78678529 1 0 1 21 TCGA-12-0829 56 6 62 14 DIS3 chr15 + 64377566 GLI3 chr7 − 42032535 1 0 TCGA-12-0829 8 2 10 3 EFS chr14 − 22896431 NRXN3 chr14 + 78678139 1 0 TCGA-12-0829 9 65 74 37 DIS3L chr15 + 64377398 GLI3 chr7 − 42032341 1 0 TCGA-27-1835 14 0 14 4 FAM19A2 chr12 − 60707200 GLI1 chr12 + 56146523 0 0 TCGA-06-1801 20 0 20 2 FREM2 chr13 + 38163882 RALYL chr8 + 8578,5432 1 1 TCGA-12-0827 2 0 2 2 ABCC12 chr16 − 46722685 FGFR4 chr5 + 176457194 1 1 TCGA-12-0829 35 0 35 7 ANXA7 chr10 − 74808655 CACNA1C chr12 + 2438351 1 1 TCGA-06-2559 60 37 97 1 PLEXHM3 chr2 − 208426920 PTPRS chr19 − 5222592 0 0 TCGA-12-1088 2 0 2 2 PLCL1 chr2 + 198630224 TACC2 chr10 + 123987513 1 1 TCGA-05-1601 10 0 10 4 FGFR4 chr5 + 176450528 WISP2 chr20 + 42782576 0 1 TCGA-06-1802 15 0 15 2 PDHA2 chr4 + 96980717 PDZRN4 chr12 + 39959553 0 1 TCGA-06-1802 4 0 4 2 PDHA2 chr4 + 96980509 PDZRN4 chr12 + 39959384 1 0 TCGA-06-6390 53 0 53 18 GPR182 chr12 + 55675639 PDZRN4 chr12 + 39957003 1 0 TCGA-12-0829 1121 252 1373 602 ADCY8 chr8 + 131886108 SSX3 chrX − 48091929 0 0 TCGA-12-0829 14 8 22 3 ADCY8 chr8 − 131886506 SSX3 chrX − 48091719 1 1 TCGA-12-0829 9 42 51 18 ADAM12 chr10 − 127733231 DAPK1 chr9 + 89454764 0 1 TCGA-12-2633 22 0 22 10 JOSD2 chr19 − 55705579 PTPRS chr19 − 5245999 0 1 TCGA-12-0829 100 0 100 20 COL14A1 chr8 + 121370990 MMP12 chr11 − 102242881 1 0 TCGA-12-0829 152 0 152 24 COL14A1 chr8 + 121371195 MMP12 chr11 − 102242953 0 1 TCGA-06-1802 11 47 58 19 MUSK chr9 + 112509906 SYNPO2 chr4 + 120172123 0 0 TCGA-06-1805 6 4 10 6 COL14A1 chr8 + 121332080 NCRNA0015 chr21 − 18174873 1 1 TCGA-12-0822 37 0 37 3 C7orf44 chr7 − 43683128 TACC2 chr10 + 123835337 1 0 TCGA-12-0829 0 2 2 365 GSTA3 chr6 − 52878492 TACC2 chr10 + 123884543 0 1 TCGA-12-0829 124 16 140 51 GSTA3 chr6 − 52878680 TACC2 chr10 + 123884705 0 1 TCGA-12-0829 21 7 28 10 HIP1 chr7 − 75022909 MASP1 chr3 − 188452372 0 0 TCGA-12-0829 268 123 391 242 HIP1 chr7 − 75022741 MASP1 chr3 − 188452581 1 1 TCGA-12-0829 36 641 677 365 GSTA3 chr6 − 52878496 TACC2 chr10 + 123884531 0 1 TCGA-12-1088 10 1 11 3 CAMTA1 chr1 + 7710762 TMPRSS3 chr21 − 42665918 0 1 TCGA-12-1088 65 0 65 6 ADCY10 chr1 − 166139873 DUSP27 chr1 + 165351555 0 0 TCGA-12-1088 8 1 9 4 CAMTA1 chr1 + 7714539 TMPRSS33 chr21 − 42665044 1 0 TCGA-27-1835 83 1 84 22 CNTYA5 chr5 + 79120729 SRRM1 chr1 + 24870899 0 0 TCGA-06-1801 0 43 43 31 CAMTA1 chr1 + 7264935 GDPD2 chrX + 69563759 0 1 TCGA-06-1801 13 41 54 31 CAMTA1 chr1 + 7265429 GDPD2 chrX 69563431 1 0 TCGA-06-1801 24 66 90 61 CAMTA1 chr1 + 7265556 GDPD2 chrX + 69563762 0 1 TCGA-12-0829 2 0 2 3 CCDC147 chr10 + 106165013 ISX chr22 + 33795708 0 1 TCGA-12-1088 7 1 8 5 CMYA5 chr5 + 79045621 STK24 chr13 − 97969547 1 0 TCGA-06-1801 7 1 13 4 DEPDC5 chr22 + 30619774 ROBO1 chr13 − 79802538 0 1 TCGA-12-0820 110 20 130 23 ABCA13 chr7 + 48597322 NHSL2 chrK + 71077547 1 0 TCGA-12-0820 29 4 33 3 ABCA13 chr7 + 48597477 NHSL2 chrX + 71077690 0 1 TCGA-12-0829 46 2 48 4 LIN9 chr1 − 224536835 NCOR1 chr17 − 15883585 0 0 TCGA-12-3644 3 0 3 1 EFHC1 chr6 + 52432073 LRBA chr4 − 151418615 1 0 TCGA-12-3644 3 10 13 3 EFHC1 chr6 + 52431890 LRBA chr4 − 151418438 1 0 TCGA-19-5958 6 6 12 7 DEPDC5 chr22 + 30504095 SLC5A4 chr22 − 30974671 0 1 TCGA-06-1801 4 4 8 5 KCND3 chr1 − 112227957 LY75 chr2 − 160443238 1 1 TCGA-12-0820 26 1 27 2 BBX chr3 + 108997451 CUL3 chr2 − 225108623 0 0 TCGA-12-0828 8 67 75 31 ADCY2 chr5 + 7558840 SDAD1 chr4 − 77096208 1 1 TCGA-12-0829 13 21 34 16 AGBL4 chr1 − 48902776 NUP188 chr9 + 130808425 0 0 TCGA-12-0829 64 308 372 197 EYS chr6 − 64513356 IL1RN chr2 + 113603712 0 1 TCGA-12-0829 7 25 32 11 ABL4 chr1 − 48902600 NUP188 chr9 + 130808628 1 1 TCGA-12-0829 9 0 9 1 LRBA chr4 − 151790893 PSEN1 chr14 + 72707609 1 0 TCGA-12-1093 65 4 69 21 OSBPL10 chr3 − 31887272 TRAPPC9 chr8 − 140828099 1 1 TCGA-12-1600 9 0 9 5 5-Sep chr22 + 18088018 NCOR1 chr17 − 15915170 0 1 TCGA-19-0957 18 1 19 7 ADCY10 chr1 − 166060045 AKT3 chr1 − 241743142 0 1 TCGA-19-0957 34 2 36 11 ADCY10 chr1 − 166060502 AKT3 chrl − 241742588 1 0 TCGA-12-0822 0 1 1 16 ITGB2 chr21 − 45147805 SH3RF3 chr2 + 109430489 0 1 TCGA-12-0822 6 2 8 1 ITGB2 chr21 − 45147994 SH3RF3 chr2 + 109430069 0 1 TCGA-12-0827 25 3 28 8 CUL3 chr22 − 225126210 LY75 chr2 − 160455052 1 0 TCGA-12-0828 7 2 9 4 FH chr1 − 239743589 SRGAP1 chr12 + 62723692 0 1 TCGA-12-0829 24 0 24 9 ITGA9 chr3 + 37712050 SNX5 chr20 − 17885523 0 1 TCGA-12-1089 17 2 19 5 ABCC1 chr16 + 16077635 RNF216 chr7 − 5692038 1 1 TCGA-12-1089 6 0 6 8 CAMSAP1 chr9 − 137867066 NCF2 chr1 − 181799321 1 0 TCGA-19-0957 16 0 16 4 CCDC147 chr10 + 106114657 STK4 chr20 + 43111359 0 0 TCGA-06-1801 5 33 38 18 AP4S1 chr14 + 30611930 EYS chr6 − 64770011 1 0 TCGA-06-1805 3 14 17 9 UL3 chr2 − 225064315 SLC44A2 chr19 + 10608393 1 0 TCGA-12-0829 14 27 41 23 ADCY2 chr5 + 7798041 C14orf174 chr14 + 76914809 1 0 TCGA-12-0829 59 7 66 18 NR3C1 chr5 − 142760085 SORCS2 chr4 + 7354165 0 0 TCGA-12-0829 9 40 49 28 ADCY2 chr5 + 7798641 C14orf174 chr14 + 76915034 0 1 TCGA-12-1093 20 0 20 4 GAPVD1 chr9 + 127104266 MAPKAP1 chr9 − 127490362 1 0 TCGA-12-1600 7 0 7 4 CILP chr15 − 63283865 PARP16 chr15 − 63350048 0 1 1 10 TCGA-19-0957 13 3 15 6 AQP2 chr12 + 48635567 CDH4 chr20 + 59413648 0 1 1 10 TCGA-19-0967 6 0 6 1 AQP2 chr12 + 48635406 CDH4 chr20 + 59413498 1 0 0 10 TCGA-06-0166 2 0 2 3 CCDC158 chr4 − 77541796 SNX5 chr20 − 17885346 0 1 1 9 TCGA-06-1802 30 0 30 9 RANBP2 chr2 + 109759804 SATB2 chr2 − 199995572 0 1 1 9 TCGA-06-1805 4 0 4 3 C2CD3 chr11 − 73430819 XRRA1 chr11 − 74309669 1 1 0 9 TCGA-06-1805 6 1 7 5 NEUROG1 chr5 − 134898853 PRKCH chr14 + 61027580 1 1 0 9 TCGA-12-0820 27 0 27 2 RANBP2 chr2 + 109749908 TTC27 chr2 + 32939367 0 1 1 9 TCGA-12-0820 58 7 65 15 RANBP2 chr2 + 199749412 TTC27 chr2 + 32837790 1 0 0 9 TCGA-12-0829 6 128 134 35 C2CD3 chr11 − 73529639 CAPZB chr1 − 19556435 0 0 1 9 TCGA-12-0829 84 443 527 227 C2CD3 chr11 − 73529293 CAPZB chr1 − 19556627 1 1 0 9 TCGA-12-1088 10 0 10 2 PACSIN1 chr6 + 34589431 TNC chr9 − 116884742 0 1 0 9 TCGA-12-1088 12 0 12 2 PACSIN1 chr6 + 34589619 TNC chr9 − 116884958 1 0 1 9 TCGA-19-0957 34 19 53 17 PRKCH chr14 + 61032978 ZFAND3 chr6 + 36228111 1 0 1 9 TCGA-19-0957 7 1 8 7 MAPKAP1 chr9 − 127348507 SLC9A1 chr1 − 27302334 0 1 0 9 TCGA-19-0957 8 39 47 21 PRKCH chr14 + 61032774 ZFAND3 chr6 + 38227949 1 0 0 9 TCGA-06-1801 5 11 16 4 MAOA chrX + 43486192 SH3RF3 chr2 + 109237058 1 0 1 8 TCGA-06-1802 10 12 22 12 DNM1L chr12 + 32736794 3SYNPO2 chr4 + 120172271 0 1 1 8 TCGA-06-1802 18 42 60 24 MUC4 chr3 − 196992875 SMOC2 chr6 + 168676813 1 0 1 8 TCGA-12-0829 6 0 6 6 ATXN1 chr6 − 16669201 CACNA1G chr17 + 46004995 0 0 1 8 TCGA-12-0829 7 0 7 3 ATP6V0D2 chr8 + 87186716 RERE chr1 − 8336574 1 1 0 8 TCGA-12-1088 11 1 12 6 BCAS3 chr17 + 56321892 CACNA1G chr17 + 46010698 1 1 0 8 TCGA-12-1098 15 2 17 5 ABCC1 chr16 + 16135771 AGBL4 chr1 − 49315120 1 0 0 8 TCGA-12-1089 17 3 20 4 MST1R chr3 − 49910627 WDFY1 chr2 − 224512774 1 0 0 8 TCGA-12-1088 4 0 4 2 FBXL4 chr6 − 99431443 SY4PO2 chr4 + 120172560 0 0 1 8 TCGA-12-1092 39 4 43 12 CNTN2 chr1 + 203302926 DNAJC6 chr1 + 65591195 0 0 1 8 TCGA-12-1598 4 0 4 5 MPP1 chrX − 153673715 SRGAP1 chr12 + 62777947 0 0 1 8 TCGA-19-1786 5 19 24 7 ATP5B chr12 − 55320148 USP48 chr1 − 21920103 1 0 1 8 TCGA-19-2621 21 0 21 3 BCAS3 chr17 + 56731673 TTYH1 chr19 + 59638801 1 1 0 8 TCGA-06-1801 15 0 15 9 C15orf23 chr15 + 38469150 DMD chrX − 32092185 0 1 1 7 TCGA-06-1805 6 3 9 5 FAM19A2 chr12 − 60547321 POLM chr7 − 44082653 0 1 0 7 TCGA-12-0829 13 94 97 44 ATP5B chr12 − 55319484 PRC1 chr15 − 89330475 1 0 1 7 TCGA-12-0829 158 207 365 44 ATP5B chr12 − 55320850 PRC1 chr15 − 89334458 1 1 0 7 TCGA-12-0829 2 1 3 2 DDI2 chr1 + 15825507 KIDINS220 chr2 − 8805399 0 1 0 7 TCGA-12-0829 25 6 31 44 ATP5B chr12 − 55321832 PRC1 chr15 − 89335627 1 0 1 7 TCGA-12-0529 34 21 55 44 ATP5B chr12 − 551321200 PRC1 chr3 − 89335044 0 1 0 7 TCGA-12-0829 44 6 50 4 ABCC6 chr16 − 16204784 SUMF1 chr3 − 4470138 1 0 0 7 TCGA-12-0829 53 28 81 35 DDI2 chr1 + 15825941 KIDINS220 chr2 − 8805580 1 0 1 7 TCGA-12-0829 9 0 9 5 DMD chrX − 32013100 N4BP2L2 chr13 − 32008512 0 0 1 7 TCGA-12-1052 9 0 5 4 LRRC4B chr19 − 55754780 NR3C1 chr5 − 142660156 0 1 0 7 TCGA-19-2521 3 22 25 11 PCDH12 chr5 − 141309153 SLC36A2 chr5 − 150679274 1 1 0 7 TCGA-06-1801 6 4 12 5 BAHD1 chr15 + 38539023 OSBPL10 chr3 − 31729622 0 1 1 6 TCGA-12-0828 11 0 11 1 PLOD3 chr7 − 100646340 VSNL1 chr2 + 17638618 1 1 0 6 TCGA-12-0828 40 9 49 20 PLOD3 chr7 − 100646511 VSNL1 chr2 + 17637955 0 0 1 5 TCGA-12-0829 16 2 16 9 c21orf29 chr21 − 44922864 MYT1 chr20 + 62300829 0 0 1 6 TCGA-12-0829 196 0 196 37 IGFBP3 chr7 − 45922866 SMOC2 chr6 + 168722450 0 0 1 6 TCGA-12-0829 5 1 6 1 FAM1684 chr21 − 72835771 NCF2 chr1 − 181826115 1 0 1 6 TCGA-12-0829 5 18 23 9 FAM168A chr11 − 72839534 NCF2 chr1 − 181825930 1 0 0 6 TCGA-12-1089 20 0 20 2 SLC44A2 chr19 + 10602997 XRCC4 chr5 + 82430803 1 0 0 6 TCGA-19-0957 17 1 18 4 PAX3 chr2 − 222778052 WDFY1 chr2 − 224453159 1 0 1 6 TCGA-06-1801 5 0 5 1 CAP2 chr6 + 17571234 DN4JC6 chr1 + 65602700 1 0 0 5 TCGA-06-1801 6 32 38 15 CAP2 chr6 + 17571666 DNAJC6 chr1 + 65603089 0 1 1 5 TCGA-06-1805 3 0 3 8 PLCL1 ch2 + 198578552 SURF6 chr9 − 135188818 0 1 0 5 TCGA-06-1805 7 2 9 4 PLCLI chr2 + 198578671 SURF6 chr9 − 135189294 1 0 1 5 TCGA-12-0822 17 4 21 4 TAAR6 chr6 + 132533266 TTYH1 chr19 + 59629451 0 1 1 5 TCGA-12-0828 17 0 17 8 AQP2 chr12 + 48634800 ECE1 chr1 − 21515240 0 1 1 5 TCGA-12-0828 7 0 7 1 AQP2 chr12 + 48534610 ECE1 chr1 − 21515033 1 0 0 5 TCGA-12-0829 12 0 12 7 CACNA1G chr17 + 46039372 CNTNAP4 chr16 + 74873868 0 1 1 5 TCGA-19-0957 4 0 4 3 PCDH12 chr5 − 141316624 SH3BP5 chr3 − 15315567 0 0 1 5 TCGA-15-0957 8 2 10 2 PCDH12 chr5 − 141316405 SH3BP5 chr3 − 15315731 1 1 0 5 TCGA-06-1801 13 1 14 1 ABCC6 chr15 − 16205051 CMTM7 chr3 + 32443880 0 1 1 4 TCGA-06-1801 33 7 40 4 ABCC6 chr16 − 16204860 CMTM7 chr3 + 32443722 1 0 0 4 TCGA-06-1805 10 3 13 6 ABCC6 chr1 − 49449813 NOX4 chr11 − 853714996 0 0 1 4 TCGA-12-0829 11 0 11 4 FAM160A1 chr4 + 152595916 LY75 chr2 − 160440194 0 1 0 4 TCGA-12-0829 17 1 18 5 FAM160A1 chr1 + 152596097 LY75 chr2 − 160440376 1 0 1 4 TCGA-12-0829 487 83 570 249 CORO7 chr16 − 4375428 DYRK3 chr1 + 204876154 0 0 1 4 TCGA-12-1088 2 12 14 4 FAM172A chr5 − 93052315 TRIOBP chr22 + 36427382 0 1 1 4 TCGA-06-1801 30 7 37 18 DEPDC7 chr11 + 33003811 EIF2C2 chr8 − 141618836 1 0 0 3 TCGA-06-1801 40 28 68 33 MAP7 chr6 − 136728609 SH3RF3 chr2 + 109392677 0 0 TCGA-12-1093 6 15 21 8 CORO7 chr16 − 4398302 PLEK2 chr14 − 66934201 0 1 TCGA-12-3644 33 0 33 4 EDA chrX + 69073054 SSX3 chrX − 48094443 1 1 TCGA-12-3644 37 15 52 17 C15orf33 chr15 − 47424122 PARP16 chr15 − 63350289 0 0 TCGA-09-1791 14 3 17 8 PSEN1 chr14 + 72748293 ZNE410 chr14 + 73431112 0 0 TCGA-06-1802 35 2 37 17 CELF2 chr10 + 11352537 PLA2G2F chr1 + 20348173 1 1 TCGA-06-1802 63 26 39 25 CELF2 chr10 + 11352765 PLA263F chr1 + 20347997 0 0 TCGA-06-1802 8 2 10 3 LCLAT1 chr2 + 30535977 PACSIN1 chr6 + 34576195 1 0 TCGA-06-2562 6 0 6 4 SNTA1 chr20 − 31473415 IMEM80 chr11 + 689744 0 0 TCGA-12-0829 16 1 17 4 LASS6 chr2 + 169045211 NKAIN2 chr6 + 125021252 0 0 TCGA-12-0829 7 0 7 2 LASS6 chr2 + 169045333 NKAIN2 chr6 + 125021072 1 1 TCGA-14-0813 339 39 378 5 SNTA1 chr20 − 31481069 TMEM80 chr11 + 686739 0 0 TCGA-12-0820 49 3 52 11 CAMKK1 chr17 − 3712344 FAM1848 chr4 − 17271273 0 1 TCGA-12-0826 8 18 26 13 C'ELF2 chr10 + 11406463 NME4 chr16 + 389427 1 1 TCGA-12-1089 17 4 21 10 C6orf170 chr6 − 121478035 NKAIN2 chr6 + 125083380 1 0 TCGA-12-1600 19 0 19 3 ATP6AP1L chr5 + 81649744 FAM172A chr5 − 93336459 1 0 TCGA-12-1600 5 35 40 6 ATP6AP1L chr5 + 81649902 FAM172A chr5 − 93336676 1 0 TCGA-19-1790 4 0 4 4 ARMC6 chr19 + 19026932 FAM184B chr4 − 17391210 1 0 TCGA-06-1802 12 0 12 8 EIF2C2 chr8 − 141648334 TNFRSF10B chr8 − 22940680 0 0 TCGA-14-0781 22 2 24 8 FAM160A1 chr4 + 152584637 UNC93B1 chr11 − 67523253 1 0

indicates data missing or illegible when filed

TABLE 3 Recurrent gene fusion pairs from Exome-fuse analysis of 84 GBM from TCGA. Sample gene A gene B Sample gene A gene B TCGA-12-0820 ABCA13 NH5L2 TCGA-12-0820 CAMKK1 FAM184B TCGA-12-1089 ABCC1 RNF216 TCGA-12-1089 CAMSAP1 NCF2 TCGA-12-1088 ABCC1 AGBL4 TCGA-12-1088 CAMTA1 TMPRS53 TCGA-12-0827 ABCC12 FGFR4 TCGA-06-1801 CAMTA1 GDPD2 TCGA-12-0829 ABCC6 SUMF1 TCGA-06-1801 CAP2 DNAJC6 TCGA-06-1801 ABCC6 CMTM7 TCGA-19-0957 CCDC147 STK4 TCGA-12-1088 ABL1 TNFRSF10B TCGA-12-0829 CCDC147 ISX TCGA-06-1802 ADAM12 PTPRD TCGA-06-0166 CCDC158 SNX5 TCGA-12-0829 ADAM12 DAPK1 TCGA-19-0957 CDH11 RERE TCGA-12-1088 ADCY10 DUSP27 TCGA-06-1802 CELF2 PLA2G2F TCGA-19-0957 ADCY10 AKT3 TCGA-12-0826 CELF2 NME4 TCGA-12-0828 ADCY2 SDAD1 TCGA-12-1600 CILP PARP16 TCGA-12-0829 ADCY2 C14orf174 TCGA-12-1089 CLK3 LRP1 TCGA-12-0829 ADCY8 SSX3 TCGA-12-1088 CMYA5 STK24 TCGA-12-0829 AGBL4 NUP188 TCGA-27-1835 CMYA5 SRRM1 TCGA-06-1805 AGBL4 NOX4 TCGA-12-1092 CNTN2 DNAJC6 TCGA-12-1089 AHNAK C21orf29 TCGA-06-1805 COL14A1 NCRNA00157 TCGA-12-0829 ANχA7 CACNA1C TCGA-12-0829 COL14A1 MMP12 TCGA-06-1801 AP4S1 EYS TCGA-12-1093 CORO7 PLEK2 TCGA-12-0828 AQP2 ECE1 TCGA-12-0829 CORO7 DYRK3 TCGA-19-0957 AQP2 CDH4 TCGA-06-1801 CROCC CSMD2 TCGA-19-1790 ARMC6 FAM184B TCGA-19-0957 CSMD2 MDH2 TCGA-19-1786 ATP58 USP48 TCGA-06-1805 CUL3 SLC44A2 TCGA-12-0829 ATP58 PRC1 TCGA-12-0827 CUL3 LY75 TCGA-12-1600 ATP6AP1L FAM172A TCGA-12-0829 DDI2 KIDINS220 TCGA-12-0829 ATP6V0D2 RERE TCGA-19-5958 DEPDC5 SLC5A4 TCGA-12-0829 ATXN1 CACNA1G TCGA-06-1801 DEPDC5 ROBO1 TCGA-06-1802 BAHD1 OSBPL10 TCGA-06-1801 DEPDC7 EIF2C2 TCGA-12-0820 BBX CUL3 TCGA-12-0829 DIS3L GLI3 TCGA-19-2621 BCA53 TTYH1 TCGA-12-0829 DMD N4BP2L2 TCGA-12-1088 BCA53 CACNA1G TCGA-06-1802 DNM1L SYNPO2 TCGA-06-1801 C15orf23 DMD TCGA-12-3644 EDA SSX3 TCGA-12-3644 C15orf33 PARP16 TCGA-12-3644 EFHC1 LRBA TCGA-12-0829 C21orf29 MYT1 TCGA-12-0829 EPS NRXN3 TCGA-06-1805 C2CD3 XRRA1 TCGA-06-1802 EIF2C2 TNFRSF10B TCGA-12-0829 C2CD3 CAPZB TCGA-19-0957 EML1 NRXN3 TCGA-12-1089 C6orf170 NKAIN2 TCGA-12-0829 ENTPD2 FREM2 TCGA-12-0822 C7orf44 TACC2 TCGA-12-0829 EYS IL1RN TCGA-12-1089 CACNA1C ITGAV TCGA-14-0781 FAM160A1 UNC93B1 TCGA-12-0829 CACNA1G CNTNAP4 TCGA-12-0829 FAM160A1 LY75

Table 3 above shows recurrent gene fusion pairs from Exome-fuse analysis of 84 GBM from TCGA. Fusion candidates have been nominated if they have at least two split inserts and at least two split reads. To further filter the list on recurrence, any fusion candidate was kept in which one of the genes is involved in at least two fusions across different samples.

To experimentally validate the computational predictions that emerged from TX-Fuse, the PCR products spanning the fusion breakpoint were sequenced and validated each of the five in-frame fusion predictions (FIGS. 1 and 9). In FIG. 1B, the prediction is shown and in FIG. 1C, the cDNA sequence validation for the fusion with the highest read support involving FGFR3 fused in-frame with TACC3 in GSC-1123 is shown. The same FGFR3-TACC3 fusion transcript was also detected in the primary GBM-1123 tumor specimen from which the GSC-1123 culture was established (FIG. 1C). The amplified cDNA contained an open reading frame for a protein of 1,048 amino acids resulting from the fusion of a FGFR3 amino-terminal portion of residues 1-758 with a TACC3 carboxy-terminal portion of residues 549-838 (FIG. 1D). FGFR3 is a member of the FGFR receptor tyrosine kinase (TK) family that transduces intracellular signals after binding to FGF ligands (Turner and Grose, 2010). TACC3 belongs to the evolutionarily conserved TACC gene family, which also includes TACC1 and TACC2. The distinctive feature of TACC proteins is the presence of a coiled-coil domain at the C-terminus, known as the TACC domain. Through the TACC domain, TACC proteins localize to the mitotic spindle during metaphase and stabilize the microtubule spindle network (Hood and Royle, 2011; Peset and Vernos, 2008). In the predicted fusion protein the intracellular TK domain of FGFR3 is fused upstream of the TACC domain of TACC3 (FIG. 1D).

Exon-specific gene expression analysis from the RNA-seq coverage in GSC-1123 demonstrated that the FGFR3 and TACC3 exons implicated in the fusion are highly overexpressed compared with the mRNA sequences not included in the fusion event (FIG. 10A). Quantitative RT-PCR showed that the expression of the fused FGFR3-TACC3 exons is significantly higher in GSC-1123 than other GSCs and the normal brain (80 to 130-fold, FIG. 10B). Without being bound by theory, functionally significant genetic rearrangements may result in marked overexpression (outlier) of the genes implicated in the fusion events (Tomlins et al., 2007; Tomlins et al., 2005). The FGFR3-TACC3 fusion protein was also abundantly expressed in GSC-1123 and in the primary tumor GBM-1123, as shown by Western blot and immunohistochemistry (FIGS. 10C and 10D). On a Western Blot, the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion protein migrated at a size of ˜150 kD and immunoprecipitation followed by mass spectrometry revealed the presence of FGFR3 and TACC3 peptides consistent with the cDNA translation prediction (FIG. 10E). Using PCR, the genomic breakpoint coordinates were mapped to chromosome 4 (#1,808,966 for FGFR3 and #1,737,080 for TACC3, genome build GRCh37/hg19) falling within FGFR3 exon 17 and TACC3 intron 7, which gives rise to a transcript in which the 5′ FGFR3 exon 16 is spliced to the 3′ TACC3 exon 8. The DNA junctions of FGFR3 and TACC3 show microhomology within a 10-base region, an observation consistent with results previously reported for other chromosomal rearrangements in human cancer (Bass et al., 2011; Stephens et al., 2009) (FIG. 1E).

The experimental validation of the inferred genomic fusions was focused on FGFR3-TACC3. Exome-Fuse identified FGFR3-TACC3 gene fusions in four GBM samples with breakpoints spanning invariably within intron 16 of FGFR3 (which is downstream to the coding region for the TK domain) and intron 7-10 of TACC3 (which is upstream to the TACC domain) (FIG. 2A, Tables 4 and 5). Among the four positive TCGA GBM specimens, two were available from TCGA centers for molecular analysis (TCGA-27-1835 and TCGA-06-6390) and, by Sanger sequencing, each of them were confirmed to carry an in-frame fusion transcript that is consistent with the predicted genomic breakpoints (FIGS. 2B and 2C). Thus, the frames of the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion proteins invariably result in juxtaposing the TK domain of FGFR3 upstream of the TACC domain of TACC3. Consistent with the abundant expression of FGFR3-TACC3 in GSC-1123 and GBM-1123, the mRNA expression analysis of the TCGA tumors revealed that the four FGFR3-TACC3-positive GBM display marked co-outlier expression of FGFR3 and TACC3 (FIG. 2D). Recurrent gene fusions can be associated with local copy number variations (CNV) of the breakpoint regions (Wang et al., 2009). Accordingly, the analysis of SNP arrays in the TCGA dataset revealed the presence of microamplification events of the FGFR3 and TACC3 genes in all four FGFR3-TACC3-positive GBM (FIG. 2E).

TABLE 4 List of split inserts supporting the identification of FGFR3-TACC3 fusion genes in four GBM samples from the ATLAS-TCGA exome collection (SEQ ID NOS 187-224, respectively, in order of appearance)

mis-

bit TCGAsampleID

length

length match gap

TCGA 

FGFR3 76

100

17

17

GTGCTGCCATGCCGCGCCCTCCCAG AGGCCCACCTTCAGCACCTGGTGGA GGACCTGGACCGTGTCCTTACCGTG TCGA 

FGFR3

17

17

ATGCGGGAGTGCTGGCATGACGCGC CCTCCCAGAGGCCCACCTTCAAGGA GCTGGTGGAGGACCTGGACCGTGTCC TCGA 

FGFR3

100

17

17

ACCTGGTGGAGGACCTGGACCGTGT CCTTACCGTGACGTCCACCGACGTG AGTGCTGGCTCTGGCCTGGTGCCACC TCGA 

TACC3

100

17

17

CCCTTAAAACAACTCGTTCCCTCAG ACCACACACAAGACAGTTCAAGAGG GACTCAAGGACTTACAGTCCAGGAA TGTCCA TCGA 

TACC3

100

17

17

AACCAAAGGCTCAGACCCCCAGGAA TAGAAAATATAGGCCCTTAAAACAA CTCGTTCCCTCAGACCACACAGAAGA TCGA 

TACC3

17

17

43 TCAAGGACTTACAGGAATGTCCAGT GCTCCCAAGAAATCGAACTCCACAA GCTTGGCTTCCCGCGCAGTCCTGAG TCGA 

TACC3

100

17

17

49 GGACTTACAGGAATGTCCAGTGCTC CCAAGAAATCGAACTCCACAAGCTT GGCTTCCCGCGGACGTCCTGAGGGAT TCGA 

TACC3

100

17

17

CAGACCACACACAAGACAGTTCAAG AGGGACTCAAGGACTTACAGGAATG TCCAGTGCTCCCAAGAAATCGAACTC TCGA 

FGFR3 72

17

17

CTTACCGTGACGTCCACCGACGTGA GTGGTGGCTCTGGCCTGGTGCCACC CGCCTATGCCCCTCCCCTGCCCTTAG TCGA 

TACC3 75

100

17

17

AAACTTGAGGTATAAGGACTGCTTC GTCAAGGCCGACTCCTTAAACGGGG GACAAGACCCCAAGTGATCAGGTCTG TCGA 

TACC3

100

17

17

AACTTGAGGTATAAGGACTGCTTCC TCAAGGCCGACTCCTTAAACTGGGG ACAAGAGGGCAAGTGATCAGGTCTGA TCGA 

FGFR3

100

17

17

GCCCCCAGGTACATGATCATGCGGG AGTGCTGGCATGCCGCGCCCTCCCA GAGGCCCACCTTCAAGCACCTGGTGG TCGA 

FGFR3

17

17

ACCGTGACGTCCACCGACGTGAGTG CTGGCTCTGGCCTGGTGCGACCCGC CGATCTCTCTCCCCTGTCCTTTTCCT TCGA 

TACC3

62

82 17

17

TGGGAGGGTGCGGGGGGCCGGGGGG GGGAGTGTGCAGGTGAGCTCCCTGG CCCTTGGCCCCCTGCCCTCTGGGGGG TCGA 

TACC3

74

74 17

17

CTGGGAATGGTGGTGTCTCGGGCAG GGTTGTGGGTGACCGGGGGTGGGAG GGTGCGGGGGACCGGGGGGGGGAGGG TCGA 

FGFR3

100 76

78 17

17

AGCGCCGGGCCCGCAGGTACATGAT CATGCGGGAGTGCTGGCATGCCGCG CCCTCCCAGAGGCCCACCTTCAAGCA TCGA 

TACC3

100 78

76 17

17

GCCAACGCCATGCCCAGGCCGGAGA GTCCCGGGGAGGCTGCTGGTGGGCA GCTGACTGCGGGGACACTGGGTGGAA TCGA 

TACC3

100 83

60 17

17

AGGCCACCAGAGGCCAACGCCATGC CCAGGCCGGAGAGTCCCGGGGAGGC TGCTGGTGGGGAGGCGAACGCGGGGA TCGA 

TACC3

81

61 17

17

TGCCCAGGCCGGAGAGTCCCGGGGC GGCTGCTGGGGGGGAGCTGACTGGG GGGGCACTGGGGGGGAGACCCGGGCC TCGA 

TACC3

100

0 0

17

17

101 TAGGCCCTTAAAACAACTCGTTCCC TCAGACCACACACAAGACAGTTCAA GAGGGACTCAAGGAGTTACAGGAATG TCGA 

TACC3

100

0 0

17

17

ACTCAAGGACTTACAGGAATGTCCA GTGCTCCCAAGAAATCGAACTCCAC AAGCTTGGCTTCCCGCGGACGTCCTG TCGA 

TACC3

100

0

17

17

AGGCCCTTAAAACAACTGGTTCCCT CAGACCACACACAAGACAGTTCAAG AGGGACTCAAGGACTTACAGGAATGT TCGA 

FGFR3

100

0 0

17

17

151 GCCCTCCCAGAGGCCCACCTTCAAG CAGCTGGTGGAGGACCTGGACCGTG TCCTTACCGTGACGTCCACCGACGTG TCGA 

FGFR3

100

0

17

17

127 GCCGCGCCCTCCCAGAGGCCCACCT TCAAGCAGCTGGTGGAGGACCTGGA CCGTGTCCTTACCGTGACGTCCACCG TCGA 

FGFR3

3 0

17

17

GGTGGAGGACCTGGACCGTGACCTT ACCGGGACGTCCACCCACGGGAGTG CTGGGTCTGGCCTGGTGCCACCCGCC TCGA 

FGFR3

100

0

17

17

GACGTCCACCGAGGTGAGTGCTGGC TCTGGCCTGGTGCCACCCGCCTATG CCCCTCCCCCTGCCGTGGGCGGCCAT TCGA 

FGFR3

100

0 0

17

17

11 TGTCCTTACCGTGACGTCCACCGAC GTGAGTGCTGGCTCTGGCCTGGTGG CACCCGCCTATGCCCCTCCCCCTGCC TCGA 

TACC3

3 0

17

17

143 TACCTGCTGGTCTCGGTGGCCACGG GCACTGGTCTACCAGGGCTGTCCCT CCGGAGGGGGTCAAACTTGAGGGATA TCGA 

FGFR3

17

17

141 CTGGACCGTGTCCTTGCCGTGACGT CCACCGACGTGAGTGCTGGCTCTGG CCTGGTGCCACCCGCCCATGCCCCTC TCGA 

FGFR3

1

17

17

126 TGTCCTTACCGTGACGTCCACCGAC GTGAGTGCTGGCTCTGGCCTGGTCC CACCCGCCTATGCCCCTCCCCTGCCC TCGA 

TACC3

1

87 17

17

133 AAAAGATTTAAGTTTAGATCTTTAA TATACCTAGAACGGTGGCTGTAACC AGCAAGGCAGGAGCCCTTTGTGTTGG TCGA 

TACC3

2

2

17

17

4 TGGGTCAAACTTGAGGTATAAGGAC TGCTTGCTCAACGCCGACTCCTTAT ACTGGGGACAAGAGGGCAAGTGATCA TCGA 

FGFR3

1 0

78 17

17

GAGTGCTGGCTCTGGCCTGGTGCCA CCCGCCTATGCCCCTCCCCCTGGCG TCCCCGGCCATCCTGCCCCCCAGAGT TCGA 

FGFR3

100 78 0

17

17

127 GAGTGCTGGCTCTGGCCTGGTGCCA CCCCCCTATGCCCCTCCCCCTGCCG TCCCCGGCCATCCTGCCCCCCAGAGT TCGA 

TACC3

78 3

17

17

127 GCCAACGCCATGCCCAGGCCGGAGA GTCCCGGGGAGGCTGCTGGTGGGGA GCTGACTTCGGGGACACTGGGGGGAA TCGA 

FGFR3

78 3

17

17

127 CATGCGGGAGTGCTGGCATGGCGCG CCCTCCCAGCGGCCCACCTTCAAGC AGCTGGTGGGGGACCTGGACCGTGTC TCGA 

FGFR3

100 76

17

17

151 ACGTGAGTGCTGGCTCTGGCCTGGT GCCACCCGCCTATGCCCCTCCCCCT GCCGTCCCCGGCCATCCTGCCCCCCA TCGA 

FGFR3

100

0

78 17

17

CCCTCCCAGAGGCCCACCTTCAAGC AGCTGGTGGAGGACCTGGACCGTGT CCTTACCGTGACGTCCACCGACGTGA

indicates data missing or illegible when filed

TABLE 5 List of split reads supporting the identification of FGFR3-TACC3 fusion genes in four GBM samples from the ATLAS-TCGA exome collection (SEQ ID NOS 225-318, respectively, in order of appearance) sample

length mismatch

TCGA 

TACC3

R 177

177

TCGA 

FGFR3

F 177

177

 2

TCGA 

FGFR3

F 177

177

 2

TCGA 

FGFR3

F 177

177

TCGA 

FGFR3

F 177

177

 4

TCGA 

FGFR3

F 177

177

TCGA 

TACC3

R 177

177

 8 1

TCGA 

TACC3

R 177

177

 8

TCGA 

FGFR3

F 177

177

10

TCGA 

FGFR3

F 177

177

10

TCGA 

FGFR3

F 177

177

11

TCGA 

FGFR3

F 177

177

TCGA 

TACC3

177

177

21

TCGA 

TACC3

177

177

TCGA 

TACC3

R 177

177

1

TCGA 

FGFR3

F 177

177

49

TCGA 

TACC3

R 177

177

TCGA 

TACC3

R 177

177

1

TCGA 

FGFR3

F 177

177

58

TCGA 

TACC3

177

177

TCGA 

TACC3

R 177

177

 8

TCGA 

TACC3

R 177

177

TCGA 

FGFR3

F 177

177

TCGA 

FGFR3

177

177

18

TCGA 

FGFR3

F 177

177

TCGA 

TACC3

177

177

33 1

TCGA 

TACC3

R 177

177

1

TCGA 

TACC3

R 177

177

37

TCGA 

TACC3

R 177

177

TCGA 

FGFR3

F 177

177

56

TCGA 

FGFR3

F 177

177

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 177

177

TCGA 

TACC3

F 177

177

TCGA 

TACC3

R 177

177

33

TCGA 

TACC3

R 177

177

TCGA 

TACC3

177

177

16 1

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 177

177

29

TCGA 

TACC3

F 177

177

32

TCGA 

TACC3

R 177

177

TCGA 

TACC3

R 177

177

TCGA 

TACC3

R 177

177

41

TCGA 

TACC3

R 177

177

TCGA 

TACC3

R 177

177

TCGA 

TACC3

F 177

177

TCGA 

TACC3

R 177

177

TCGA 

TACC3

R 177

177

86

TCGA 

TACC3

177

177

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

0 0

TCGA 

TACC3

F 17

17

74 0 0

TCGA 

TACC3

F 17

17

74 0 0

TCGA 

TACC3

F 17

17

74 0 0

TCGA 

TACC3

F 17

17

0 0

TCGA 

TACC3

F 17

17

4 0

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

0 0

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

0 0

TCGA 

TACC3

F 17

17

1 0

TCGA 

TACC3

F 17

17

0 0

TCGA 

TACC3

F 17

17

0 0

TCGA 

TACC3

F 17

17

0 0

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

0 0

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

48 0 0

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

46 0 0

TCGA 

TACC3

F 17

17

27

0

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

0 0

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

22 0 0

TCGA 

TACC3

F 17

17

0 0

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

0

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

1

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

1

TCGA 

TACC3

F 17

17

1

TCGA 

TACC3

F 17

17

1

TCGA 

TACC3

F 17

17

1

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

44

1

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

2 1

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

40 2 1

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

2 1

TCGA 

TACC3

F 17

17

21 2 1

TCGA 

TACC3

F 17

17

13 0 1

TCGA 

TACC3

F 17

17

 0 0 1

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

1 0

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

0

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

1 0

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

2 0

TCGA 

TACC3

F 17

17

47 0 0

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

44 0 0

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

0 0

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

37 0 0

TCGA 

FGFR3

F 17

17

0 0

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

0 0

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

0 0

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

17 0 0

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

18 0 0

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

10 0 0

TCGA 

FGFR3

R 17

17

0 0

indicates data missing or illegible when filed

The FGFR3 and TACC3 genes are located 48-Kb apart on human chromosome 4p16. The other members of the FGFR and TACC families retain the close physical association of FGFR3 and TACC3, with FGFR1 and TACC1 paired on chromosome 8p11 and FGFR2 and TACC2 paired on chromosome 10q26. Without being bound by theory, the ancestral FGFR and TACC genes were physically linked and that this tandem gene cluster was duplicated at least twice to generate the FGFR1-TACC1, FGFR2-TACC2 and FGFR3-TACC3 pairs that mark mammalian evolution (Still et al., 1999). The highly conserved TK domains among FGFR genes and TACC domains among TACC genes together with their invariable fusion in the FGFR3-TACC3 rearrangements prompted to ask whether other intra-chromosomal FGFR-TACC fusion combinations exist in human GBM.

cDNA from a panel of 88 primary GBM were screened using pairs of upstream PCR primers that bind the amino-terminal coding region of the TK domains of FGFR1, FGFR2 and FGFR3 and downstream primers that bind to the carboxy-terminal coding region of the TACC domains of TACC1, TACC2 and TACC3 genes, respectively. The screening resulted in the identification of intrachromosomal FGFR-TACC fusions in two additional cases (one harboring FGFR1-TACC1 and one FGFR3-TACC3), corresponding to three of 97 total GBM (3.1%), including the GBM-1123 case. The FGFR1-TACC1 fusion breakpoint in GBM-51 joined in-frame exon 17 of FGFR1 to exon 7 of TACC1, resulting in a novel protein in which the TK domain of FGFR1 is fused upstream of the TACC domain of TACC1 (FIG. 2F). The same structure was conserved again in GBM-22 in which exon 16 of FGFR3 is joined in-frame to exon 10 of TACC3 (FIG. 2G). None of the tumors harboring FGFR-TACC fusions had mutations in IDH1 or IDH2 genes, thus indicating that FGFR-TACC-positive GBM mark an independent subgroup of patients from those carrying IDH mutations (Table 6) (Yan et al., 2009). The constant linkage of the FGFR-TK to the TACC domain created in each of the seven GBM harboring FGFR-TACC rearrangements suggests that FGFR-TACC fusion proteins may generate important functional consequences for oncogenesis in the brain.

TABLE 6 Age at initial IDH1-2 IDH1-2 pathologic status status Samples Type Time Status diagnosis (Sanger) (exome) TCGA-12-0826 FGFR3-TACC3 845 DECEASED 38 WT WT TCGA-27-1835 FGFR3-TACC3 648 DECEASED 53 NA WT TCGA-19-5958 FGFR3-TACC3 164 LIVING 56 NA WT TCGA-06-6390 FGFR3-TACC3 163 DECEASED 58 WT WT GBM-22 FGFR3-TACC3 390 DECEASED 60 WT NA GBN-1123 FGFR3-TACC3 NA DECEASED 62 WT NA GBM-51 FGFR3-TACC1 NA NA NA WT NA Time = Survival (days after diagnosis) Sanger = analysis done by Sanger sequencing of genomic DNA Exome = alnalysis done by SAVI (Statistical Algorithm for Variant Identification) 

  an algorithm developed to detect point mutation in cancer (BRAF Mutations in Hairy-Cell Leukemia, Tiacci E et al. The New Englad Journal of Medicine 2011 Jun. 16;364(24):2305-15) NA = Not Available WT = Wild type sequence for R132 and R172 of IDH1 and IDH2, respectively

indicates data missing or illegible when filed

Transforming Activity of FGFR-TACC Fusions.

To test the functional importance of the FGFR-TACC fusions in GBM, the FGFR3-TACC3 cDNA was cloned from GSC-1123 and recombinant lentiviruses were prepared expressing FGFR3-TACC3, FGFR1-TACC1, a kinase-dead FGFR3-TACC3 protein (FGFR3-TACC3-K508M), wild type FGFR3 and wild type TACC3. Transduction of Rat1A fibroblasts and Ink4A;Arf−/− astrocytes with the FGFR3-TACC3 lentivirus resulted in the expression of the fusion protein at levels comparable to those present in GSC-1123 (FIG. 11). Having reconstituted in non-transformed cells the endogenous level of the FGFR-TACC protein that accumulates in GBM cells, it was determined whether it was sufficient to initiate oncogenic transformation in vitro and in vivo. Rat1A cells expressing FGFR3-TACC3 and FGFR1-TACC1 but not those expressing FGFR3-TACC3-K508M, FGFR3, TACC3 or the empty lentivirus acquired the ability to grow in anchorage-independent conditions in soft agar (FIG. 3A). Transduction of the same lentiviruses in primary Ink4A;Arf−/− astrocytes followed by subcutaneous injection into immunodeficient mice revealed that only astrocytes expressing FGFR3-TACC3 and FGFR1-TACC1 formed tumors. The tumors emerged in 100% of the mice injected with astrocytes expressing the fusion proteins and were glioma-like lesions with strong positivity for Ki67, phospho-histone H3, nestin, GFAP and Olig2 (FIG. 3B).

Next, it was determined whether the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion protein is oncogenic when transduced to a small number of cells directly into the brain of immunocompetent animals. A recently described mouse glioma model was used in which brain tumors are initiated by lentiviral transduction of oncogenes and inactivation of p53 in the mouse brain (Marumoto et al., 2009). To target adult NSCs, the adult mouse hippocampus was stereotactically transduced with purified lentivirus expressing the FGFR3-TACC3 protein and shRNA against p53 (pTomo-FGFR3-TACC3-shp53). Seven of eight mice (87.5%) transduced with FGFR3-TACC3 succumbed from malignant brain tumors within 240 days (FIG. 3C). None of the mice transduced with a lentivirus expressing the most frequent gain-of-function mutation in GBM (the constitutively active EGFRvIII, pTomo-EGFRvIII-shp53) or the pTomo-shp53 control lentivirus died or developed clinical signs of brain tumors (FIG. 3C). The FGFR3-TACC3 tumors were high-grade glioma with strong propensity to invade the normal brain and stained positive for the glioma stem cell markers nestin and Olig2 and the glial marker GFAP. They were also highly positive for Ki67 and phospho-histone H3, thus displaying rapid tumor growth (FIG. 3D). The expression of FGFR3-TACC3 in the xenograft and intracranial tumor models was comparable to the expression of the endogenous protein in the human GSCs and tumor (FIGS. 11D, 11E and 11F).

These data show that FGFR-TACC fusion proteins possess transforming activity in two independent cellular models and this activity is not the result of the overexpression of individual FGFR and TACC genes. They also show that direct transduction of the FGFR3-TACC3 protein to the adult mouse brain leads to efficient development of malignant glioma.

The FGFR-TACC Fusions Interfere with Mitotic Progression and Induce Chromosome Missegregation and Aneuploidy.

To elucidate the mechanism by which the FGFR-TACC fusion drives oncogenesis, it was explored whether it activates downstream FGFR signaling. FGFR3-TACC3 failed to hyperactivate the canonical signaling events downstream of FGFR (pERK and pAKT) in the presence or absence of the ligands FGF-1, FGF-2 or FGF-8 (Wesche et al., 2011) (FIGS. 12A, 12B and 12C). However, FGFR3-TACC3 displayed constitutive phosphorylation of its TK domain and the adaptor protein FRS2, both of which were abolished by the specific inhibitor of FGFR-associated TK activity PD173074 (Mohammadi et al., 1998) or the K508M mutation (FIG. 4A). Thus, FGFR3-TACC3 gains constitutive kinase activity that is essential for oncogenic transformation but the downstream signaling of this aberrant activity is distinct from the canonical signaling events downstream to FGFR. By driving the localization of the fusion protein, the TACC domain can create entirely novel TK-dependent functions. The TACC domain is essential for the localization of TACC proteins to the mitotic spindle (Hood and Royle, 2011; Peset and Vernos, 2008). Confocal imaging showed that FGFR3-TACC3 designed an arc-shaped structure bending over and encasing the metaphase spindle poles, frequently displaying asymmetry towards one of the two poles and relocated to the midbody as cells progressed into the late stages of mitosis (telophase and cytokinesis) (FIGS. 4B and 12D). Conversely, the localization of TACC3 was restricted to spindle microtubules and did not relocalize to the midbody (FIG. 12E). Wild type FGFR3 lacked discrete localization patterns in mitosis (FIG. 12F).

The mitotic localization of FGFR3-TACC3 indicates that it may impact the fidelity of mitosis and perturb the accurate delivery of the diploid chromosomal content to daughter cells, thus generating aneuploidy. Mitotic progression of individual cells was examined in vector-transduced and FGFR3-TACC3 expressing cells co-expressing histone H2B-GFP by time-lapse microscopy. The average time from nuclear envelope breakdown to anaphase onset was increased in cells expressing FGFR3-TACC3 in comparison with control cells. The mitotic delay was further exacerbated by difficulties in completing cytokinesis (FIGS. 4C and 4D).

Next, it was determined whether the expressions of the FGFR-TACC fusion proteins induce defects of chromosomal segregation. Quantitative analyses of mitoses revealed that cells expressing FGFR3-TACC3 or FGFR1-TACC1 exhibit a three to five fold increase of chromosomal segregation errors than control cells. The most frequent mitotic aberrations triggered by the fusion proteins were misaligned chromosomes during metaphase, lagging chromosomes at anaphase and chromosome bridges that impaired cytokinesis and generated micronuclei in the daughter cells (FIGS. 4E, 4F and 13A). Aberrations at the metaphase-anaphase transition frequently lead to the inability of mitotic cells to maintain a metaphase arrest after treatment with a spindle poison. Over 18% of cells expressing FGFR3-TACC3 displayed prematurely separated sister chromatids in contrast with less than 3% in control, FGFR3 or TACC3-expressing cells (FIGS. 13B and 13C). Accordingly, cells expressing the fusion protein were unable to efficiently arrest in metaphase after nocodazole treatment (FIG. 13D).

The above findings indicate that expression of the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion protein may spark aneuploidy. Karyotype analysis revealed that FGFR3-TACC3 increased over 2.5 fold the percent of aneuploidy and led to the accumulation of cells with broad distribution of chromosome counts in comparison with cells transduced with empty vector, FGFR3 or TACC3 (FIG. 5A). Accordingly, GSC-1123 contained aneuploid modal number of chromosomes (49) and manifested a broad distribution of chromosome counts characterized by 60% of metaphase spreads that deviate from the mode (Table 7)

TABLE 7 Chromosome analysis by SKY of 20 cells from the GSC-1123 culture Cell # Chr # +1 +2 +3 t(3; 14) +4 (−4) del(4) +5 +6 +7 del(7) +8 −9 +9 −10 +10 +11  1 97 2 2 2 2 1 2 2 4 2 2 2  2 51 1 1  3 49 1 1  4 50 1 1  5 49 1 1  6 86 2 2 2 2 2 3 1 1 2  7 95 2 2 2 2 1 2 4 2 2 2  8 98 2 3 2 1 2 1 2 4 3 1 2  9 86 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 6 2 3 1 1 10 44 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 11 49 1 1 1 12 49 1 1 13 98 2 2 2 2 2 2 4 2 2 2 14 49 1 1 15 48 1 1 16 51 1 1 17 49 1 1 18 50 1 1 1 19 49 1 1 20 49 1 1 Cell # Chr # +12 +13 del(13) −14 +14 +15 −16 +16 +17 +18 +19 +20 −21 +21 −22 +22 +X  1 97 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 4 4 2 2 2  2 51 2 2 1 1 1  3 49 1 1 1 1  4 50 1 1 1 1  5 49 1 1 1 1  6 86 2 2 2 2 2 2 4 3 3 1 2  7 95 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 4 2 4 2 2 2  8 98 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 3 4 4 3 2 2  9 86 2 2 2 2 1 4 3 1 2 1 2 10 44 1 1 1 1 1 11 49 1 1 1 12 49 1 1 1 1 13 98 2 2 2 2 2 2 4 4 4 2 2 2 14 49 1 1 1 1 15 48 1 1 1 1 16 51 1 1 1 2 1 17 49 1 1 1 1 18 50 1 1 1 1 1 19 49 1 1 1 20 49 1 1 1 1

Next, it was determined whether aneuploidy is a direct consequence of FGFR3-TACC3 expression and is induced in human diploid neural cells. Primary human astrocytes analyzed six days after transduction with the FGFR3-TACC3 lentivirus exhibited a 5-fold increase of the rate of aneuploidy and a significantly wider distribution of chromosome counts (FIGS. 5B, 5C and 5D). Consistent that aneuploidy is detrimental to cellular fitness, acute expression of FGFR3-TACC3 compromised the proliferation capacity of human astrocytes. However, continuous culture of FGFR3-TACC3-expressing human astrocytes led to progressive gain of proliferative capacity that overrode that of control cells (FIG. 14A, 14B). Thus, the acute expression of FGFR3-TACC3 in primary normal human cells from the central nervous system causes CIN and aneuploidy with an acute fitness cost manifested by slower proliferation.

It was also determined whether the CIN and aneuploidy caused by FGFR3-TACC3 requires the TK activity of FGFR3 and can be corrected. Treatment with PD173074 rescued the aneuploidy caused by FGFR3-TACC3 by over 80%, restored the narrow distribution of chromosome counts typical of control cells and largely corrected the cohesion defect (FIGS. 6A, 6B and 6C). Together, these findings indicate that the CIN and aneuploidy caused by rearrangements of FGFR and TACC genes are reversible and suggest that specific FGFR kinase inhibition may be a valuable therapeutic strategy in tumor cells expressing FGFR-TACC fusion proteins.

FGFR-TACC Fusion Proteins are New Therapeutic Targets in GBM.

Driver genetic alterations trigger a state of oncogene addiction in the cancer cells harboring them that can be exploited therapeutically. To ask whether FGFR-TACC fusions confer addiction to FGFR-TK activity, cell growth was analyzed in the presence of PD173074, AZD4547 or BGJ398, the latter being two highly specific inhibitors of FGFR-TK under clinical investigation (Gavine et al., 2012; Guagnano et al., 2011). Each of the three drugs inhibited growth of cells expressing FGFR3-TACC3 and FGFR1-TACC1 at concentrations <10 nM whereas they were ineffective at concentrations as high as 1 μM in cells transduced with vector, FGFR3, TACC3 and the FGFR3-TACC3-K508M mutant (FIGS. 7A, 14C and 14D). These findings underscore the elevated degree of specificity for FGFR kinase inhibition towards cells carrying the fusion protein. The growth of GSC-1123 cells, which naturally harbor the FGFR3-TACC3 translocation, was also abolished by nanomolar concentrations of FGFR-TK inhibitors (FIG. 7B). Targeting of the fusion gene by FGFR3 shRNA inhibited the growth of cells ectopically expressing FGFR3-TACC3 and GSC-1123 proportionally to the silencing efficiency of FGFR3-TACC3 (FIGS. 7C and 14E).

Finally, it was determined whether treatment with PD173074 of mice bearing glioma xenografts of FGFR3-TACC3 transformed astrocytes inhibits tumor growth. Twelve days after injection of tumor cells, subcutaneous tumors were present in all animals. The mice were randomized in two cohorts and treated with PD173074 or vehicle. PD173074 elicited a potent growth inhibition of FGFR3-TACC3 glioma (FIG. 7D). To confirm the efficacy of a clinically meaningful FGFR-TK inhibitor using a more anatomically relevant model, the AZD4547 FGFR inhibitor, a compound under clinical investigation (Gavine et al., 2012), was used against intracranial luciferase-expressing FGFR3-TACC3-driven glioma xenografts. After an engraftment period, tumor-bearing animals were treated with either AZD4547 or vehicle. Oral administration of AZD4547 markedly prolonged survival (FIG. 7E). Taken together, the data provide a strong rationale for a clinical trial based on FGFR inhibitors in GBM harboring FGFR-TACC rearrangements.

Discussion

This work has established that recurrent, oncogenic and addicting gene fusions identify a subset of GBM patients. The functional characterization of FGFR-TACC fusions indicates that the constitutively active FGFR-TK and the TACC domain of the fusion protein are both essential for oncogenesis. The TACC-dependent mis-localization to mitotic cells of the FGFR kinase results in aberrant compartmentalization of a constitutively active TK to the mitotic spindle pole, thus providing a mechanistic explanation for the impaired mitotic fidelity, chromosome mis-segregation and aneuploidy instigated by the fusion protein.

Without being bound by theory, mutation of the genes that control chromosome segregation during mitosis can explain the high rate of CIN and aneuploidy, which is typical of most solid tumors including GBM (Gordon et al., 2012). A few examples of mutational inactivation of candidate genes have been reported in human cancer (Solomon et al., 2011; Thompson et al., 2010). However, gain-of-function mutations causally implicated in the control of mitotic fidelity have not been described. This clashes with the classical observation from cell fusion experiments that the underlying mechanisms that cause CIN behave as dominant traits, indicating that the CIN phenotype results from gain-of-function events rather than gene inactivation (Lengauer et al., 1997, 1998). The FGFR-TACC gene fusion is a novel mechanism for the initiation of CIN and provides a clue to the nature of dominant mutations responsible for aneuploidy in human cancer.

The rapid emergence of mitotic defects and aneuploid cell populations triggered by the fusion protein in normal human astrocytes, combined with the correction of aneuploidy after short inhibition of FGFR-TK activity indicate that aneuploidy is a key event in tumor induction by the FGFR-TACC gene fusions. Induction of aneuploidy per se is detrimental to cellular fitness (Sheltzer and Amon, 2011). Full-blown tumorigenesis requires cooperation between aneuploidy and genetic lesions that confer growth advantage and protect cells against the detrimental effects of aneuploidy (Coschi and Dick, 2012; Holland and Cleveland, 2009; Weaver and Cleveland, 2009). Therefore, the potent tumor-initiating activity of FGFR-TACC fusions shows that the novel oncoproteins have growth-promoting signaling functions that complement the loss of mitotic fidelity with ensuing karyotypic alterations (Sheltzer and Amon, 2011).

Targeted therapies against common genetic alterations in GBM have not changed the dismal clinical outcome of the disease, most likely because they have systematically failed to eradicate the truly addicting oncoprotein activities of GBM. The highly specific anti-tumor effects and the correction of aneuploidy precipitated by FGFR-TK inhibition of FGFR-TACC-driven GBM provide a strong rationale for clinical trials based on FGFR inhibitors in patients harboring FGFR-TACC rearrangements. The computational gene fusion discovery pipeline reported here detected other GBM cases in which FGFR family genes are implicated in additional gene fusions beyond the FGFR-TACC rearrangements. Therefore, the frequency of 3.1% is likely to be an underestimate of the target GBM patient population that may benefit from FGFR-TK inhibition.

Experimental Procedures

Cell Culture and Isolation and Maintenance of GSCs.

Rat1A, mouse astrocytes Ink4A;Arf−/−, and human astrocytes were cultured in DMEM supplemented with 10% FBS. Isolation and culture of GSCs was performed as described (Carro et al., 2010). For treatment in vitro with PD173074, AZD4547 or BJG398, cells infected with vector control, FGFR3, TACC3, FGFR-TACC fusions or FGFR3-TACC3-K508M were seeded in 96-well plates and treated with increasing concentrations of FGFR inhibitors. After 72-120 h, growth rate was measured using the 3-(4,5-dimethythiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Data were expressed as mean±SD. Proliferation rate in GSC-1123 infected with FGFR3 shRNA lentivirus was determined by plating dissociated gliomaspheres at 2×10⁴ cells/well in twelve-well plates 5 days after infection. The number of viable cells was determined by trypan blue exclusion in triplicate cultures obtained from triplicate independent infections. Cell number was scored every other day.

DNA, RNA Preparation, Genomic and Real-Time Quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR).

The validation of fusion transcripts was performed using both genomic and RT-PCR with forward and reverse primer combinations designed within the margins of the paired-end read sequences detected by RNA-seq. DNA, RNA preparation and qRT-PCR were performed as described (Carro et al., 2010; Zhao et al., 2008). To identify novel fusion transcripts within the GBM cohort, PCR primers pairs were designed to bind upstream to the TK domain of the FGFR genes and inside or downstream the Coiled Coil domain of the TACC genes. Expressed fusion transcript variants were subjected to direct sequencing to confirm sequence and frame. Primer sequences are included below.

Subcutaneous Xenografts and Drug Treatment.

Rat1A or Ink4A;Arf−/− astrocytes (5×10⁵) transduced with different lentiviral constructs were suspended in 150 μl of PBS, together with 30 μl of Matrigel (BD Biosciences), and injected subcutaneously in the flank of athymic nude (Nu/Nu) mice (Charles River Laboratories, Wilmington, Mass.). For experiments with FGFR inhibitors, mice carrying ˜200-300 mm³ subcutaneous tumors derived from Ink4A;Arf−/− astrocytes were randomized to receive 50 mg/kg PD173074 in 0.05 M lactate buffer (pH 5) or an equal volume of lactate buffer by oral gavage. Treatment was administered for three cycles consisting of four consecutive days followed by two days of rest. Tumor diameters were measured with caliper, and tumor volumes estimated using the formula: 0.5×length×width. Data are expressed as mean±SE. Mice were sacrificed when tumors in the control group reached the maximal size allowed.

Orthotopic Transplantation and Drug Treatment.

Ink4A;Arf−/− astrocytes carrying a luciferase expressing vector were transduced with FGFR3-TACC3 lentivirus. 1×10³ cells in 2 μl of saline were injected in the caudate-putamen of 4-6 week old male athymic nude (Nu/Nu) mice using a stereotaxic frame (coordinates relative to bregma: 0.5 mm anterior; 1.1 mm lateral; 3.0 mm ventral) and a 26 gauge Hamilton syringe. Six days after injection, mice underwent bioluminescence imaging using a Xenogen CCD apparatus and were randomized to receive 50 mg/kg AZD4547 in 1% Tween 80 (treatment group) or DMSO in an equal volume of vehicle by oral gavage (control group). AZD4547 was administered daily for two cycles of 10 days with a two day interval. Mice were monitored daily and sacrificed when neurological symptoms appeared. Kaplan-Meier survival curve was generated using the DNA Statview software package (AbacusConcepts, Berkeley, Calif.). Log-rank analysis was performed on the Kaplan-Meier survival curve to determine statistical significance.

Intracranial Injections of Lentiviruses.

Intracranial injection of FGFR3-TACC3-shp53, EGFRvIII-shp53 or shp53 pTomo lentiviruses was performed in 4 week-old C57/BL/6J mice in accordance with guidelines of IACUC Committee. Briefly, 1.8 μl of purified lentiviral particles in PBS (1×10⁹/ml) were injected into the dentate gyrus using a stereotaxic frame (coordinates relative to bregma: 1.45 mm posterior; 1.65 mm lateral; 2.4 mm ventral) and a 26 gauge Hamilton syringe. Mice were monitored daily and sacrificed when neurological symptoms appeared. Mouse brain was analyzed histopathologically and by immunofluorescence staining.

Histology and Immunostaining.

Tissue preparation and immunohistochemistry on brain tumors and immunofluorescence staining were performed as previously described (Carro et al., 2010; Zhao et al., 2009; Zhao et al., 2008). Antibodies used in immunostaining and immunoblotting are listed below.

Cloning and Lentiviral Production.

Lentivirus preparation and infections were performed as described (Carro et al., 2010) and are detailed in Extended Experimental Procedures.

Karyotype Analysis.

Cultured cells were colcemid (20 ng/ml) treated for 90 minutes before harvesting for karyotopic analysis as detailed in Extended Experimental procedures. At least one hundred cells in metaphase were examined for chromosome count. PMSCS was scored in cells where a majority of the sister chromosomes were no longer associated. Two-tailed unpaired t-tests with Welch's correction were performed for comparison of means analysis.

Immunofluorescence and Live-Cell Microscopy.

Immunofluorescence microscopy was performed on cells fixed with 4% PFA in PHEM (60 mM Pipes, 27 mM Hepes, 10 mM EGTA, 4 mM MgSO₄, pH 7.0). Cells were permeabilized using 1% Triton X-100. Mitotic spindles were visualized by anti-α-tubulin antibody (Sigma). Secondary antibodies conjugated to Alexa Fluor-488/-594 (Molecular Probes) were used. All staining with multiple antibodies were performed in a sequential manner. DNA was stained by DAPI (Sigma). Fluorescence microscopy was performed on a Nikon MR MP microscope.

Identification of Gene Fusions from Whole Transcriptome (RNA-Seq) and Exome Sequencing.

RNA-Sequencing was performed from total RNA extracted from GSC cultures isolated from nine GBM patients using Illumina HiSeq 2000, producing roughly 60.3 million paired reads per sample. Using the global alignment software Burrows-Wheeler Aligner (BWA) (Li and Durbin, 2009) with modified Mott's trimming, an initial seed length of 32, maximum edit distance of 2 and a maximum gap number of 1, on average 43.1 million reads were mapped properly to the RefSeq transcriptome and, of the remaining, 8.6 million were mapped to the hg19 genome per sample. The remaining 14.3% of paired reads—including those that failed to map to either transcriptome or genome with proper forward-reverse (F-R) orientation, within expected insert size, and with minimal soft clipping (unmapped portions at the ends of a read)—were considered to be appropriate for gene fusion analysis.

A novel computational pipeline was constructed called TX-Fuse that identifies two sources of evidence for the presence of a gene fusion: 1. Split inserts, in which each read of a mate pair maps entirely to one side of a breakpoint, and 2. Individual split reads that span a breakpoint. Split inserts are readily detected from BWA mapping. On the other hand, split reads demand precision alignment of smaller nucleotide stretches. To that end, the pipeline employs the local alignment package BLAST with word size of 20, identity cutoff of 95%, expectation cutoff of 10⁻⁴, and soft filtering to map raw paired reads against the RefSeq transcriptome. From this procedure, a list of potential split reads were obtained that were filtered to ensure maintenance of coding frame in the predicted fusion transcript given the proper F-R orientation in the read pair. False positive candidates produced from paralogous gene pairs were also screened out using the Duplicated Genes Database and the EnsemblCompara GeneTrees (Vilella et al., 2009). Pseudogenes in the candidate list were annotated using the list from HUGO Gene Nomenclature Committee (HGNC) database (Seal et al., 2011) and given lower priority. For each remaining gene fusion candidate, a virtual reference was created based on the predicted fusion transcript and re-mapped all unmapped reads using BLAST with word size of 16, identity cutoff of 85%, query coverage greater than 85%, and expectation cutoff of 10′ to obtain a final count of split reads and inserts. Moreover, sequencing depth per base of the virtual reference was calculated to corroborate that components of each gene participating in the gene fusion were highly expressed.

To establish the recurrence of the initial panel of gene fusion candidates, the gene fusion discovery pipeline was modified to produce EXome-Fuse, which probes for fusions within the available dataset of paired-read exome DNA sequencing of 84 matched GBM samples from TCGA. To increase sensitivity for gene fusion identification, reads unmapped by BWA were aligned to the gene pair participating in each fusion candidate using a BLAST word size of 24 for split inserts and 16 for split read and split insert discovery. Given that the breakpoint detected in DNA cannot directly indicate the resulting breakpoint in the transcribed RNA, no restriction was made on split insert orientation. For split reads, it was only required that the component of the split read mapped to the same gene as its mate maintained F-R directionality.

Co-Outlier Expression and CNV Analysis from TCGA GBM Samples.

Tomlins et al. (Tomlins et al., 2005) reported that outlier gene expression from microarray datasets identifies candidate oncogenic gene fusions. Wang et al. (Wang et al., 2009) suggested a “breakpoint principle” for intragenic copy number aberrations in fusion partners. The two principles (outlier expression and intragenic CNV) were combined to identify candidate gene fusions in GBM samples from Atlas-TCGA. Genomic and expression data sets were downloaded from TCGA public data portal as available on Dec. 1, 2011, where a description of TCGA data types, platforms, and analyses is also available (2008). Specific data sources were (according to Data Levels and Data Types) as follows: Expression data, “Level 2” normalized signals per probe set (Affymetrix HT_HG-U133A) of 84 samples; Copy number data, “Level 1” raw signals per probe (Affymetrix Genome-Wide Human SNP Array 6.0) of the 4 FGFR3-TACC3 gene fusion positive samples (tumor and matched normal control).

The gene expression analysis was performed first using R³. The median absolute deviation (MAD) was calculated and then a gene was labeled as an outlier according to the following formula: Z_(i,j)=0.6745(x_(i,j)−mean(x_(i)))/MAD_(i)>3.5 (Iglewicz and Hoaglin, 1993). Samples were identified as ECFS (expression candidate fusion sample) if both genes of interest (e. g. FGFR3 and TACC3) displayed outlier behavior (co-outliers). Next, ECFS were analyzed for CNV using pennCNV (Wang et al., 2007). Tumors samples were paired to their normal controls to obtain the log ratio values and the VEGA algorithm was used to obtain a more accurate segmentation (Morganella et al., 2010).

Karyotypic Analysis.

The colcemid treated cells were trypsinized, centrifuged for 7 minutes at 200×g, and the cell pellet re-suspended in warmed hypotonic solution and incubated at 37° C. for 13 minutes. The swollen cells were then centrifuged and the pellet re-suspended in 8 ml of Carnoy's fixative (3:1 methanol:glacial acetic acid). The cell suspension was centrifuged and washed twice in Carnoy's fixative. After the last centrifugation, the cells were resuspended in 0.5 to 1 ml of freshly prepared fixative to produce an opalescent cell suspension. Drops of the final cell suspension were placed on clean slides and air-dried. Slides were stained with DAPI and metaphases were analyzed under a fluorescent microscope.

Cloning and Lentiviral Production.

Lentiviral expression vectors, pLOC-GFP (Open Biosystems) and pTomo-shp53, were used to clone FGFR3, TACC3, FGFR3-TACC3, FGFR3-TACC3-K508M, and FGFR1-TACC1. pTomo-shp53 was a gift of Inder Verma and Dinorah Friedman-Morvinski (Salk Institute, San Diego). The FGFR3-TACC3-K508M mutant was generated using the Phusion Site Direct Mutagenesis kit (NEB, USA). MISSION shRNAs clones (pLKO.1 lentiviral expression vectors) against FGFR3 were purchased from Sigma. The hairpin sequences targeting the FGFR3 gene are—

(#TRCN0000000372; Sh#2) (SEQ ID NO: 182) 5′-TGCGTCGTGGAGAACAAGTTT-3′; (#TRCN0000430673; Sh#3) (SEQ ID NO: 183) 5′-GTTCCACTGCAAGGTGTACAG-3′; (#TRCN0000000374; Sh#4) (SEQ ID NO: 184) 5′-GCACAACCTCGACTACTACAA-3′.

Genomic and mRNA RT-PCR.

Total RNA was extracted from cells by using RNeasy Mini Kit (QIAGEN), following the manufacturer instructions. 500 ng of total RNA was retro-transcribed by using the Superscript III kit (Invitrogen), following the manufacturer instructions. The cDNAs obtained after the retro-transcription was used as templates for qPCR. The reaction was performed with a Roche480 thermal cycler, by using the Absolute Blue QPCR SYBR Green Mix from Thermo Scientific. The relative amount of specific mRNA was normalized to 18S. Results are presented as the mean±SD of triplicate amplifications.

Primers used are:

hFGFR3-RT-FW1: (SEQ ID NO: 162) 5′-GTAACCTGCGGGAGTTTCTG-3′; hFGFR3-RT-REV1: (SEQ ID NO: 163) 5′-ACACCAGGTCCTTGAAGGTG-3′; hTACC3-RT-FW2: (SEQ ID NO: 164) 5′-CCTGAGGGACAGTCCTGGTA-3′; hTACC3-RT-REV2: (SEQ ID NO: 165) 5′-AGTGCTCCCAAGAAATCGAA-3′; hWRAP53-RT-FW1: (SEQ ID NO: 180) 5′-AGAGGTGACCACCAATCAGC-3′; hWRAP53-RT-REV1: (SEQ ID NO: 181) 5′-CGTGTCCCACACAGAGACAG-3′.

Primers used for the screening of FGFR-TACC fusions are:

FGFR3-FW1: (SEQ ID NO: 166) 5′-CGTGAAGATGCTGAAAGACGATG-3′; TACC3-REV1: (SEQ ID NO: 167) 5′-AAACGCTTGAAGAGGTCGGAG-3′; FGFR1-FW1: (SEQ ID NO: 168) 5′-ATGCTAGCAGGGGTCTCTGA-3′; TACC1-REV1: (SEQ ID NO: 169) 5′-CCCTTCCAGAACACCTTTCA-3′.

Primers used for genomic detection of FGFR3-TACC3 fusion in GBM-1123 and GSC-1123 are:

Genomic FGFR3-FW1: (SEQ ID NO: 170) 5′-ATGATCATGCGGGAGTGC-3′; genomicTACC3-REV1: (SEQ ID NO: 171) 5′-GGGGGTCGAACTTGAGGTAT-3′.

Primers used to validate fusions detected by RNA-seq are:

POLR2A-FW1: (SEQ ID NO: 172) 5′-CGCAGGCTTTTTGTAGTGAG-3′; WRAP53-REV1: (SEQ ID NO: 173) 5′-TGTAGGCGCGAAAGGAAG-3′; PIGU-FW1: (SEQ ID NO: 174) 5′-GAACTCATCCGGACCCCTAT-3′; NCOA6-REV1: (SEQ ID NO: 175) 5′-GCTTTCCCCATTGCACTTTA-3′; ST8SIA4-FW1: (SEQ ID NO: 176) 5′-GAGGAGAGAAGCACGTGGAG-3′; PAM-REV1: (SEQ ID NO: 177) 5′-GGCAGACGTGTGAGGTGTAA-3′; CAPZB-FW: (SEQ ID NO: 178) 5′-GTGATCAGCAGCTGGACTGT-3′; UBR4-REV1: (SEQ ID NO: 179) 5′-GAGCCTGGGCATGGATCT-3′.

Confocal Microscopy Imaging.

For immunofluorescence of fixed cells, images were recorded with a Z-optical spacing of 0.25 μm using a Nikon MR MP and a 60X1.3 oil objective and analyzed using ImageJ software (National Institute of Health). For live-cell analyses, Rat1A cells infected with pLNCX-H2B retrovirus and transduced with lentiviral vector or FGFR3-TACC3 fusion were seeded in glass bottom dishes in phenol red free DMEM and followed by time-lapse microscopy using the Nikon MR MP biostation at 37° C. and 5% CO₂/95% air. Images with a Z-optical spacing of 1 μm were recorded every 4 min for 8 h. Images of unchallenged mitosis from early prophase until cytokinesis were processed using ImageJ software (National Institute of Health). The time-point of nuclear envelope breakdown (NEB) was defined as the first frame showing loss of smooth appearance of chromatin and anaphase was the first frame when chromosome movement towards the poles became apparent. Nuclear envelope reconstitution (NER) was defined as the first frame showing nuclei decondensation.

Box and whisker plots were calculated from image sequences from at least 50 recorded cells. Two-tailed unpaired t-tests with Welch's correction were performed for comparison of means analysis using StatView software (AbacusConcepts, Berkeley, Calif.).

Immunofluorescence.

Antibodies and concentrations used in immunofluorescence staining are:

Anti-Ki67 Rabbit 1:1000 Vector Labs Anti-pHH3 Rabbit 1:500  Millipore Anti-FGFR3 Mouse 1:1000 Santa Cruz Anti-Tacc3 Goat 1:1000 USBiological Anti-a-tubulin Mouse 1:1000 Sigma Anti-Nestin Mouse 1:1000 BD Pharmingen Anti-Olig2 Rabbit 1:200  IBL Anti-GFAP Rabbit 1:200  Dako Anti-ERK Rabbit 1:1000 Cell Signaling Anti-pERK Rabbit 1:1000 Cell Signaling AntiFRS Rabbit 1:250  Santa Cruz Anti-pFRS Rabbit 1:1000 Cell Signaling Anti-AKT Rabbit 1:1000 Cell Signaling Anti-pAKT473 Rabbit 1:1000 Cell Signaling

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Example 2—Fusions in GBM

TABLE 8 Soft agar colony assay F3-T3- F1-T1 F3-T3 K508M Cell line Vector FSFR3 TACC3 Fusion Fusion Fusion Rat1 0 0 0 225.3 ± 10.0 199.7 ± 8.0 0 Balb 3T3 0 0 0 n.d.  45.5 ± 8.9 n.d. n.d.: not done

TABLE 9 Subcutaneous tumor xenografts F3-T3- F1-T1 F3-T3 K508M Cell line Vector FGFR3 TACC3 Fusion Fusion Fusion Rat1 0/5 0/5 0/5 n.d 5/5 n.d Ink4A/Ar 

0/9 0/5 0/5 8/8 12/12 0/8 Astrocytes n.d.: not done

indicates data missing or illegible when filed

TABLE 10 Analysis of chromosomal number in Rat1 cells Average variation Number Percent from of cells aneu- Mean mean Cell line counted ploidy Range number number p-value Rat1A Vector 100 27 35-43 41.2 1.2 Rat1A FGFR3 100 33 35-44 42.1 1.3 n.s. Rat1A TACC3 100 41 34-46 40.7 1.1 n.s. Rat1A FSFR3- 100 69 35-73 43.0 3.1 <0.0001 TACC3

TABLE 11 Analysis of chromosomal number in human astrocytes Average variation Number Percent from of cells aneu- Mean mean Cell line counted ploidy Range number number p-value Human 100  8 42-46 45.65 0.28 p = <0.001 Astrocytes Human 100 42 28-48 42.24 3.33 Astrocytes FGFR3-TACC3

Example 3—Fusions in Other Cancers

The inventors previously reported in Example 1 that 3.1% of human glioblastoma harbor FGFR3-′TACC3 and FGFR1-TACC1 gene fusions. Tumors harboring FGFR3-TACC3 gene fusions are identified by the presence of highly specific focal micro-amplification events of the rearranged portions of the FGFR3 and TACC3 genes (See FIG. 2E). Therefore, these micro-amplification events can be used as distinctive marks for the presence of FGFR3-TACC3 gene fusions. It was asked whether other types of human tumors also harbor FGFR3-TACC3 gene fusions from the analysis of Copy Number Variations (CNVs) of SNP arrays generated from the Atlas-TCGA project. This analysis was performed using segmented CNVs data visualized using the Integrated Genomic Viewers software. The analysis revealed that the following tumors, shown in the FIGS. 31-35, display focal micro-amplification events of FGFR3 and TACC3 that indicate the presence of FGFR3-TACC3 gene fusions (in FIGS. 31-35, red indicates amplification (A), blue indicates deletion (D); FIG. 31: Bladder Urothelial Carcinoma; FIG. 32: Breast Carcinoma; FIG. 33: Colorectal Carcinoma; FIG. 34: Lung Squamous Cell Carcinoma; FIG. 35: Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma).

Taken together, these data indicate that the same FGFR3-TACC3 gene fusions reported for the first time in Glioblastoma also occur in several other types of human tumors. Therefore, as for Glioblastoma and other epithelial cancers (such as the human tumors discussed herein), the identification of FGFR-TACC gene fusions also provides a new diagnostic and therapeutic target for treatment with drugs that inhibit FGFR-TACC gene fusions.

Example 4—Detection, Characterization and Inhibition of FGFR-TACC Fusions in IDH Wild Type Glioma

Translational Relevance

Described herein is an unbiased screening assay for FGFR-TACC fusions in glioma that overcomes the great variability of variants that are generated by FGFR-TACC chromosomal translocation in human cancer. FGFR-TACC fusions occur in grade II and III glioma harboring wildtype IDH1 with frequency similar to glioblastoma (GBM), therefore providing a clue to the aggressive clinical behavior of this glioma subtype. The molecular characterization of fusion-positive glioma revealed that FGFR-TACC is mutually exclusive with EGFR amplification but co-occurs with CDK4 amplification. FGFR-TACC-positive glioma displays strikingly uniform and strong expression of the fusion protein at the single cell level. Preclinical experiments with FGFR3-TACC3-positive glioma cells treated with the FGFR inhibitor JNJ-42756493 showed strong antitumor effects and treatment of two patients with recurrent GBM harboring FGFR3-TACC3 resulted in clinical improvement and radiological tumor reduction. These findings validate the treatment with FGFR inhibitors of glioma patients harboring FGFR-TACC chromosomal translocations.

Abstract

Purpose.

Oncogenic fusions consisting of FGFR and TACC are present in a subgroup of glioblastoma (GBM) and other human cancers and have been proposed as new therapeutic targets. Frequency, molecular features of FGFR-TACC fusions, and the therapeutic efficacy of inhibiting FGFR kinase in GBM and grade-II-III glioma were analyzed.

Experimental Design.

Overall, 795 gliomas (584 GBM, 85 grade-II-III with wild-type and 126 with IDH1/2 mutation) were screened for FGFR-TACC breakpoints and associated molecular profile. Expression of the FGFR3 and TACC3 components of the fusions were also analyzed. The effects of the specific FGFR inhibitor JNJ-42756493 for FGFR3-TACC3-positive glioma were determined in preclinical experiments. Two patients with advanced FGFR3-TACC3-positive GBM received JNJ-42756493 and were assessed for therapeutic response.

Results.

Three of 85 IDH1/2 wild type (3.5%) but none of 126 IDH1/2 mutant grade-II-III glioma harbored FGFR3-TACC3 fusions. FGFR-TACC rearrangements were present in 17 of 584 GBM (2.9%). FGFR3-TACC3 fusions were associated with strong and homogeneous FGFR3 immunostaining. They are mutually exclusive with IDH1/2 mutations and EGFR amplification whereas co-occur with CDK4 amplification. JNJ-42756493 inhibited growth of glioma cells harboring FGFR3-TACC3 in vitro and in vivo. The two patients with FGFR3-TACC3 rearrangements who received JNJ-42756493 manifested clinical improvement with stable disease and minor response, respectively.

Conclusions.

RT-PCR-sequencing is a sensitive and specific method to identify FGFR-TACC-positive patients. FGFR3-TACC3 fusions are associated with uniform intra-tumor expression of the fusion protein. The clinical response observed in the FGFR3-TACC3-positive patients treated with a FGFR inhibitor supports clinical studies of FGFR inhibition in FGFR-TACC-positive patients.

Introduction

The history of successful targeted therapy of cancer largely coincides with the inactivation of recurrent, oncogenic and addicting gene fusions in hematological malignancies and recently in some types of epithelial cancer (1, 2). Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is among the most lethal forms of human cancer and targeted therapies against common genetic alterations in GBM have not changed the dismal outcome of the disease (3, 4). Underlying biological features including infiltrative growth behavior, intratumoral heterogeneity, and adaptive resistance mechanisms coupled with the unique challenges of intracranial location present significant problems in its effective management. Despite surgery and chemo-radiotherapy, most patients rapidly recur and no effective treatment options are available at that stage. Beside GBM, which features the highest grade of malignancy among glioma (grade IV), lower grade glioma which include grade II and grade III are a heterogeneous group of tumors in which specific molecular features are associated with divergent clinical outcome. The majority of grade II-III glioma (but only a small subgroup of GBM) harbor mutations in IDH genes (IDH1 or IDH2), which confer a more favorable clinical outcome. Conversely, the absence of IDH mutations is associated with the worst prognosis (5).

Described herein is the identification of FGFR-TACC gene fusions (mostly FGFR3-TACC3, and rarely FGFR1-TACC1) as the first example of highly oncogenic and recurrent gene fusions in GBM. The FGFR-TACC fusions that have been identified so far include the Tyrosine Kinase (TK) domain of FGFR and the coiled-coil domain of TACC proteins, both necessary for the oncogenic function of FGFR-TACC fusions. Tumor dependency on FGFR-TACC fusions was also tested in preclinical mouse models of FGFR-TACC glioma and observed marked anti-tumor effects by FGFR inhibition (6). FGFR3-TACC3 fusions have been identified in pediatric and adult glioma, bladder carcinoma, squamous lung carcinoma and head and neck carcinoma, thus establishing FGFR-TACC fusions as one of the chromosomal translocation most frequently found across multiple types of human cancers (6-15).

From a mechanistic standpoint, the unexpected capacity of FGFR-TACC fusions to trigger aberrant chromosome segregation during mitosis, thus initiating chromosome instability (CIN) and aneuploidy, two hallmarks of cancer, is described herein. However, the full repertoire of the structural variants of FGFR-TACC fusions occurring in GBM and lower grade glioma is not completely understood. Furthermore, it remains unknown whether FGFR-TACC fusions mark distinct grades of glioma and GBM subtypes.

To date eight variants of the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion have been reported that mostly differ for the breakpoint in the TACC3 gene (6-15). Because of the close proximity of FGFR3 and TACC3 (the two genes map at a distance of 70 Kb on chromosome 4p16.3), detection of FGFR3-TACC3 rearrangements by FISH is not a feasible option with the currently available methods. Here a screening method for FGFR-TACC fusions is reported that includes a RT-PCR assay designed to identify the known and novel FGFR3-TACC3 fusion transcripts, followed by confirmation of the inframe breakpoint by Sanger sequencing. Using this assay, a dataset of 584 GBM and 211 grade II and grade III gliomas has been analyzed.

A crucial question with fundamental clinical relevance for any novel candidate target mutation is the frequency of the alteration in the cancer cell population, thus discriminating between a clonal or sub-clonal origin of the mutation. In fact, GBM is characterized by a formidable degree of subclonal heterogeneity, whereby neighboring cells display amplification and expression of different Receptor Tyrosine Kinase (RTK)-coding genes (16-19). This notion poses major therapeutic challenges for targeting any individual RTK will result, at best, in the eradication of a limited tumor sub-clone. Described herein, it was determined that brain tumors harboring FGFR-TACC fusions manifest strong and homogeneous intra-tumor expression of the FGFR3 and TACC3 component invariably included in the fusion protein, when analyzed by immunostaining. A significant clinical benefit following treatment with a specific inhibitor of FGFR-TK is reported in two GBM patients who harbored FGFR3-TACC3 rearrangement.

Materials and Methods

Patients and Tissue Samples.

This example includes a cohort of 746 untreated patients with histologic diagnosis of glioma from 5 institutions. Forty-nine recurrent gliomas from Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital and one recurrent glioma from the University of Calgary were also included. A summary of the patient cohort is provided in Table 12.

TABLE 12 Frequency of FGFR3-TACC3 Fusions in GBM and Grade II-III glioma. Distribution of the FGFR3-TACC3 fusions in GBM (upper panel) and lower grade glioma (lower panel) samples stratified according to the Institution of origin. The table reports number of cases analyzed, number of tumors harboring FGFR3-TACC3 fusion transcripts, and results of FGFR3 immunostaining. Lower grade glioma samples are further classified according to IDH status (IDH1 and IDH2). The respective frequency of FGFR3-TACC3 in GBM, Glioma grade II-III IDH wild type (wt), and IDH mutant (Mut) glioma is reported in parentheses. Immunostaining FGFR3 Tumor Sample No of cases No of detected positive/Sample Source (GBM) fusions analyzed Pitié-Salpêtrière 380 9 9/9 Hospital Besta 85 5 2/2 Neurological Institute University of 60 + 1R^(§) 2 + 1R^(§) 1/1 + 1/1 1R^(§) Calgary Montreal 51 1 — Neurological Institute University of 8 0 — British Columbia Total 584(100%)^(£) 17(2.9%) Immuno- staining FGFR3 No of positive/ Tumor Sample IDH No of cases detected Sample Source Status (Grade II-III) fusions analyzed Pitié- IDH wt 85* (100%) 3 (3.5%) 3/3 Salpêtrière Hospital IDH1/IDH2 126 (100%) 0 (0%)   0 Mut R^(§), Recurrent GBM. ^(£)Recurrent GBM from the University of Calgary Dataset is not included in the total count of GBM. *25 cases out of 85 are unknown for IDH2 status.

Tumor specimens, blood samples and clinico-pathological information were collected with informed consent and relevant ethical board approval in accordance with the tenets of the Declaration of Helsinki. For the samples from the Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, clinical data and follow-up are available in the neuro-oncology database (Onconeurotek, GH Pitié-Salpêtrière, Paris).

Two recurrent GBM patients harboring FGFR3-TACC3 were enrolled in the dose escalation part of JNJ-42756493 trial at the Gustave Roussy Institute.

Identification of Fusion Transcripts and Analysis of Genomic Breakpoints.

Total RNA was extracted from frozen tissues using Trizol (Invitrogen) according to manufacturer instructions. Two to three hundred nanograms of total RNA were retro-transcribed with the Maxima First Strand cDNA Synthesis Kit (Thermo Scientific) or SuperScript II (Invitrogen). RT-PCR was performed using AccuPrime Taq DNA Polymerase (Invitrogen). Primer pairs used for the FGFR3-TACC3 fusions screening were: FGFR3ex12-FW: 5′-CGTGAAGATGCTGAAAGACGATG-3 (SEQ ID NO: 495) and TACC3ex14-RV: 5′-AAACGCTTGAAGAGGTCGGAG-3 (SEQ ID NO: 496); amplification conditions were 94° C.-3 min, (94° C.-30 sec/61° C.-30 sec/68° C.-1 min 40 sec) for 35 cycles, 68° C.-7 min. FGFR1-TACC1 fusions were amplified with FGFR1ex16-FW: 5′-TGCCTGTGGAGGAACTTTTCA-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 497) and TACC1ex13-RV: 5′-CCCAAACTCAGCAGCCTAAG-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 498) primers (94° C.-30 sec/60° C.-30 sec/68° C.-1 min40 sec for 35 cycles). PCR products were subjected to Sanger sequencing.

FGFR3-TACC3 genomic breakpoints were analyzed in 6 FGFR3-TACC3 positive samples, 5 of which from the Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital and 1 from Montreal Neurological Institute. Three additional samples (MB-22, TCGA 27-1835 and TCGA 06-6390) available from the previous study (6) were also included in the analysis. Fifty nanograms of genomic DNA were used in the PCR reaction, performed with Accuprime Taq Polymerase (Invitrogen) and PCR products were Sanger sequenced. Primers used in genomic PCR were designed according to the breakpoint sequence in the mRNA; the list of primers used are: FGFR3ex17-FW 5′-TGGACCGTGTCCTTACCGT-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 499) (PCR Samples 3048, 4373, 4867, 4451, MB-22, OPK-14, 06-6390, 27-1835 and Sequencing samples 3048, 4373, 4867, 4451, MB-22, OPK14, 06-6390, 27-1835); FGFR3ex16-FW 5′-GGTCCTTTGGGGTCCTGCT-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 500) (PCR and Sequencing Sample 3808); TACC3ex6-RV 5′-CCTCTTTCAGCTCCAAGGCA-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 501) (PCR and Sequencing Samples PCR 4451 and OPK-14); TACC3ex8-RV 5′-TCTACCAGGACTGTCCCTCAG-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 502) (Sequencing Samples 3048 and 4373); TACC3ex9-RV 5′-GGGAGTCTCATTTGCACCGT-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 503) (PCR Samples 3048,4373,4867 and Sequencing Sample 4867); TACC3ex10-RV 5′-CTGCATCCAGGTCCTTCTGG-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 504) (PCR and Sequencing Samples MB-22 and 06-6390); TACC3ex11-RV 5′-CCAGTTCCAGGTTCTTCCCG-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 505) (Sequencing Samples 27-1837 and 3808); TACC3ex12-RV 5′-CAACCTCTTCGAACCTGTCCA-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 506) (PCR and Sequencing Samples 27-1837 and 3808). PCR conditions were 94° C.-30 sec/60° C.-30 sec/68° C.-2 min30 sec for 40 cycles. For amplifications performed with the primer TACC3ex9-RV, the program was 94° C.-30 sec/56° C.-30 sec/68° C.-2 min30 sec) for 40 cycles.

Quantitation of FGFR3 and TACC3 Transcripts in GBM.

The relative expression of FGFR3 and TACC3 regions included in or excluded from the fusion transcript was assessed by qRT-PCR. Primer pairs with comparable efficiency of amplification were identified and efficiency was assessed using serial dilutions of cDNA (20) prepared from OAW28 ovarian carcinoma cells that contain wild type FGFR3 and TACC3 (21). Primers used are: N-terminal region of FGFR3, FGFR3-N: Forward 5′-AAGACGATGCCACTGACAAG-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 507), Reverse 5′-CCCAGCAGGTTGATGATGTTTTTG-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 508); C-terminal region of TACC3, TACC3-C: Forward 5′-TCCTTCTCCGACCTCTTCAAGC-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 509), Reverse 5′-TAATCCTCCACGCACTTCTTCAG-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 510). To amplify transcripts in regions excluded from FGFR3-TACC3 fusion, primers were designed in the C-terminal region of FGFR3, FGFR3-C: Forward 5′-TACCTGGACCTGTCGGCG-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 511), Reverse 5′-TGGGCAAACACGGAGTCG-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 512) and N-terminal domain of TACC3, TACC3-N: Forward 5′-CCACAGACGCACAGGATTCTAAGTC-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 513), Reverse 5′-TGAGTTTTCCAGTCCAAGGGTG-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 514). All reactions were performed in triplicate and the data are reported as Fold Change±Standard Deviation.

Immunofluorescence and Immunohistochemistry.

For immunofluorescence (IF) staining of FGFR3, 5 μm FFPE sections subjected to antigen retrieval with citrate buffer for 8 min. Primary antibodies were: FGFR3-N (1:400, sc-13121, Santa Cruz Biotechnology), FGFR3-C (1:2000, sc-123, Santa Cruz Biotechnology), TACC3-N (1:600, ab134153, Abcam), and TACC3-C (1:300, NBP1-01032, Novus Biological). Secondary biotinylated antibodies were used at 1:50,000 followed by streptavidin and TSA Cy3-conjugated. Nuclei were counterstained with DAPI. For immunohistochemical analysis (IHC) of FGFR3 expression, antigen retrieval was performed for 12 min and FGFR-3 antibody (sc-13121, Santa Cruz Biotechnology) was diluted 1:500. Biotinylated anti-mouse antibody (1:30,000) and streptavidin were added before incubation with the chromogen. Nuclei were counterstaining with hematoxylin.

Molecular Characterization of Tumor Samples.

Mutational status of IDH1, IDH2, TERT promoter, as well as the methylation status of the MGMT promoter was analyzed in the Pitié-Salpêtrière cohort. Expression of IDH1-R132H mutant was analyzed by IHC in 500 cases as previously described (22). IDH1 and IDH2 gene mutations were identified by Sanger sequencing in 464 and 388 gliomas, respectively (5). IDH wild-type tumors are defined according to the absence of IDH1-R132H immunopositivity and/or mutations in IDH1 and IDH2 genes. TERT promoter status was determined by the same technique in 277 samples (23). Hyper-methylation of the MGMT promoter was tested in 242 samples by bisulfite pyro-sequencing (24). The presence of EGFRvIII was evaluated by RT-PCR in 118 samples using EGFR-FW 5′-CTTCGGGGAGCAGCGATGCGAC-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 548) and EGFR-RV 5′CTGTCCATCCAGAGG AGGAGTA-3′ (SEQ ID NO: 549) primers (25).

Copy number variations analyses have been performed on 192 tissue samples using CGH arrays using BAC arrays (N=187), Agilent 4×180K (N=2), Nimblegen 3×720K (N=2), Agilent 8×60K (N=1). Results were normalized using control DNA from matched blood samples as previously described (26). Additional analyses of 193 tumor specimens were performed by SNP array, using Illumina Omni (N=110), Illumina HumCore (N=32), Illumina 370K (N=27), or Illumina 610K (N=24), as previously described (27). Array processing was outsourced to Integragen. Raw copy numbers were estimated at each of the SNP and copy-number markers. Biodiscovery property SNP-FASST2 algorithm was then used to segment copy number data. Segments were mapped to hg18 genome assembly (28). Copy number alterations (CAN) magnitudes called log-R ratio (LRR) were classified using simple thresholds: deletion (x≤−1), loss (−1<x≤−0.2), gain (0.2≤x<1) or amplification (x≥1) according to default Nexus 7.5 software. For additional 56 gliomas, 10q loss was assessed on tumor and blood DNA by microsatellite analysis, while amplification of EGFR, MDM2 and CDK4, and deletion of CDKN2A gene, were determined by qPCR, as previously reported (29, 30).

The molecular profiles obtained in Pitié-Salpêtrière dataset were combined with those available in the TCGA dataportal. TCGA GBM segmented copy number variation profile was downloaded from The UCSC Cancer Genomics Browser (31). Copy Number Variations (CNVs) were measured experimentally using the Affymetrix Genome-Wide Human SNP Array 6.0 platform at the Broad TCGA genome characterization center (32). Raw copy numbers were estimated at each of the SNP and copy-number markers. Circular binary segmentation was then used to segment the copy number data (28). Segments are mapped to hg18 genome assembly at Broad.

For CNV analysis of the regions across FGFR3 and TACC3 genes, samples for which RNAseq and CNV data were available or samples for which only CNV data were available and RT-PCR-sequencing of FGFR3-TACC3 fusion had been performed were considered. Overall, 158 GBM (all with a wild type IDH1 gene) satisfied these criteria. Among them, 5 harbored an FGFR3-TACC3 fusion whereas 153 were FGFR-TACC-negative. The CNV magnitudes, called log-R ratio (LRR), were classified using the following thresholds: deletion (x<−1), loss (−1≤x≤−0.2), gain (0.2≤x≤1) or amplification (x>1), according to the Atlas-TCGA (32). The analysis of the genomic regions encompassing EGFR, MDM2, CDK4, CDKN2A, 7p, 10q, according to hg18 genome assembly, was performed to evaluate their CNV. EGFRvIII mutation status was inferred according to Brennan et al. (32). The frequencies of the aberrations of these genes in FGFR3-TACC3 positive and negative samples were calculated and the obtained data were then combined with the Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital dataset.

Statistical Analysis.

Differences in the distribution on categorical variables were analyzed using Fisher Exact test. Thep-values were adjusted for multiple testing according to Benjamini and Hochberg false discovery rate (FDR). A q-value ≤0.05 (two-sided) was considered to be statistically significant.

Overall survival (OS) was defined as the time between the diagnosis and death or last follow-up. Patients who were still alive at the last follow-up were considered as censored events in the analysis. Progression-free survival (PFS) was defined as the time between the diagnosis and recurrence or last follow-up. Patients who were recurrence-free at the last follow-up were considered as censored events in the analysis. Survival curves were calculated by the Kaplan-Meier method and differences between curves assessed using the Log-Rank test. A Log-Rank testp-value ≤0.05 (two-sided) was considered to be statistically significant.

Cell Culture and Cell Growth Assay.

GIC-1123 gliomaspheres were cultured in neurobasal medium (Invitrogen) supplemented with B27, N2 (Invitrogen), EGF and FGF2 (20 ng/ml, PeproTech). Mouse astrocytes Ink4A-Arf−/− were cultured in DMEM supplemented with 10% Fetal Bovine Serum. Cells were seeded at 1,000 cells/well in a 96-well plate and treated with JNJ-42756493. After 72 hours cell viability was assessed using the 3-(4,5-dimethythiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Data are mean±SEM of six replicates. Experiments were performed three times.

Subcutaneous Xenografts and Drug Treatment.

GIC-1123 cells (5×10⁵) were injected subcutaneously in the flank of athymic nude (Nu/Nu) mice (Charles River Laboratories). Mice carrying ˜200 mm³ subcutaneous tumors were randomized to receive 12 mg/kg JNJ-42756493 or DMSO in 1% Tween 80 by oral gavage. Tumor diameters were measured with caliper and tumor volumes estimated using the formula: 0.5×length×width. Data are mean±SD of nine mice in each group. Mice were sacrificed when tumors in the control group reached the maximal size allowed by the IACUC Committee at Columbia University.

MRI Imaging and Evaluation of Clinical Response to JNJ-42756493.

Baseline and follow-up imaging assessments were performed on 1.5 Tesla MR imaging systems, including at least axial T1 weighted images before gadolinium injection, Axial or 3D FLAIR (Fluid-Attenuated Inversion-Recovery), dynamic susceptibility contrast MR perfusion (0.1 mmol/kg of gadobutrol), axial and 3D T1 weighted images after gadolinium injection. Tumor response was assessed according to the RANO criteria (33). Contrast-enhancing lesion volume was assessed with the help of a semi-automated volumetry tool (SegmentiX), based on shape-detection and thresholding, with control and manual correction of edges when necessary. Since exclusion of cystic or necrotic portions of the lesion may be affected by operator subjectivity, both were included for volumetric and axial measurements.

DSC (dynamic susceptibility contrast) perfusion datasets were processed with vendor's software suite (Neuroperfusion, Philips), including coregistration and rCBV (relative cerebral blood volume) parametric maps generation with 3 different algorithms (Gamma-variate fitting, Arterial Input Function based deconvolution and Model Free).

Results

Detection of FGFR1-TACC1 and FGFR3-TACC3 Fusions in GBM and Grade II-III Glioma.

To determine the frequency and molecular features of FGFR-TACC fusions in human glioma patients, a cohort of 584 GBM and 211 grade II-III glioma treated at five Neurooncology centers (Table 12) were screened. 108 were grade III (49 IDH wild type, 52 IDH1 mutant and 7 IDH2 mutant) and 103 were grade II (36 IDH wild type, 63 IDH1 mutant and 4 IDH2 mutant). The IDH mutational status of 333 GBM was also established and it was determined that 303 harbored wild type IDH1/2 and 30 were mutated at codon 132 of IDH1. A RT-PCR assay was designed for the detection of all known and possibly new variants of FGFR1-TACC1 and FGFR3-TACC3 fusions that retain the mRNA sequences coding for the key FGFR-TK and TACC domains required for the oncogenic activity of the fusion protein (FIG. 36 and FIGS. 37A-D). Overall, 20 tumors with an FGFR3-TACC3 fusion were found, of which 17 were GBM (2.9% positives) and 3 lower grade glioma harboring wild type IDH1/2 genes (3.5% positives). The size of the FGFR3-TACC3 RT-PCR amplicons ranged from 928 bp (for FGFR3ex18-TACC3ex13) to 1706 bp (for FGFR3ex18-TACC3ex4). The FGFR1-TACC1 fusion was detected in one grade II IDH wild type glioma (FIG. 36). Conversely, an IDH1/2 mutant glioma harboring FGFR-TACC fusions (p<0.02) was not found. Sanger sequencing of the fusion amplicons revealed that each FGFR-TACC cDNA joined in-frame the sequence coding for the entire TK domain upstream of TACC-coding sequences that invariably include the coiled-coil TACC domain (FIG. 36). However, a notable variability among FGFR3-TACC3 fusion isoforms was detected, whereby 5 of the identified variants occurred only in individual cases (FIG. 36). Furthermore, 6 fusion transcripts emerged as new variants that have not been reported before in human cancer (marked in red in FIG. 36).

Next, suitable PCR primers were designed to map the genomic breakpoint coordinates for 9 FGFR3-TACC3-positive samples for which genomic DNA was available (FIGS. 40 and 41). The genomic breakpoints were successfully reconstructed by Sanger sequencing and found that they differ for each of the 9 positive cases. Interestingly, even cases harboring the same FGFR3-TACC3 transcript splice variants (#4451 and # OPK-14 joining exon 17 of FGFR3 to exon 6 of TACC3; #3048 and #4373 joining exon 17 of FGFR3 to exon 8 of TACC3; #3808 and #27-1835 joining exon 17 of FGFR3 to exon 11 of TACC3) had different genomic breakpoints (FIG. 41). Taken together, the above findings indicate that the noticeable variability among FGFR3-TACC3 fusion transcripts and genomic breakpoints is efficiently resolved by the RT-PCR screening assay.

Immunostaining Analysis of FGFR3-TACC3-Positive Tumors.

The expression of the FGFR3 fusion protein was analyzed by IHC or IF using an antibody that recognizes the N-terminal region of FGFR3 (FGFR3-N) in 12 GBM and 3 lower grade glioma harboring FGFR3-TACC3 fusions for which sufficient tissue was available. Remarkably, each of the 15 positive tumors but none of those that had scored negative in the RT-PCR assay, displayed strong positivity for FGFR3 in the vast majority of tumor cells but not endothelial cells throughout the analyzed tumor section (FIGS. 37A-H). Notably, IF using an antibody that recognizes an epitope at the C-terminus of TACC3, which is invariably retained within FGFR3-TACC3 variants (TACC3-C), reproduced the staining pattern of the FGFR3-N antibody in FGFR3-TACC3 positive tumors. Conversely, negative or very weak staining was obtained in FGFR3-TACC3-positive tumors with antibodies recognizing the regions of FGFR3 (FGFR3 C-terminal region, FGFR3-C) and TACC3 (TACC3 N-terminal region, TACC3-N) constantly excluded from FGFR3-TACC3 fusion proteins (FIG. 42A). Consistently, quantitative RT-PCR of GBM harboring FGFR3-TACC3 fusions showed that the expression of the N-terminal coding region of FGFR3 and the C-terminal coding region of TACC3 (which are included in the fusion genes) is markedly higher than the expression of the C-terminal coding region of FGFR3 and the N-terminal coding region of TACC3, which are excluded from the fusion transcripts (FIG. 42B). One recurrent GBM from a patient whose tumor had been found positive for FGFR3-TACC3 at the initial diagnosis and who had recurred after concurrent radiotherapy and temozolomide treatment was analyzed. The recurrent tumor retained the same FGFR3-TACC3 fusion gene and protein that was present in the untreated GBM as determined by RT-PCR-sequencing and FGFR3 IF, respectively (FIG. 43A-C). Although this requires additional evaluation, the retained uniform positivity for FGFR3 in this recurrent GBM suggests that targeting the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion protein at relapse is a valid therapeutic strategy.

Clinical and Molecular Characteristics of Glioma Patients with FGFR3-TACC3 Fusions.

Clinical and molecular profiling data were available for 591 patients including 380 GBM (9 with FGFR3-TACC3 fusions) and all 211 lower grade glioma (3 with FGFR3-TACC3 fusions). Of these 12 patients 5 are males and 7 females, aged 48y to 82y (median=61y). The molecular profile of FGFR3-TACC3-positive glioma was determined. To do so, the analysis of CNVs and somatic mutations of key GBM genes in the dataset was combined with the SNP6.0 high-density genomic array analysis of 158 TCGA-derived GBM samples fully annotated for FGFR3-TACC3 fusion genes (the RNA-seq and/or RT-PCR analysis of these samples had revealed that 5 of them harbor FGFR3-TACC3 fusions) (6). Patients with FGFR3-TACC3 fusions displayed unique characteristics (Table 13). FGFR3-TACC3 fusions were mutually exclusive with EGFR amplification (0/16 vs. 166/411; p=0.0004, FDR q-value corrected for multiple comparisons=0.0012) and showed a clear trend against the presence of the EGFRvIII transcript variant (0/16 vs. 37/219; p=0.083). Conversely, CDK4 amplification was significantly more frequent in FGFR3-TACC3-positive tumors (7/16 vs 41/408, p=0.0008; FDR q-value=0.0024). A less significant association of FGFR3-TACC3 fusions was also seen with amplification of MDM2, which as CDK4, maps to chromosome 12q (4/16 vs 24/408, p=0.016; FDR q-value=0.048). No statistical association between FGFR3-TACC3 fusions and other genetic and epigenetic alterations that commonly occur in gliomas harboring wild type IDH genes was found (CDKN2A deletion, TERT promoter mutations, gain of chromosome 7p, loss of chromosome 10q and methylation of the MGMTpromoter, Table 13). When compared with the IDH wild type patient population of grade II and grade III glioma and GBM, there was no significant difference in progression free survival (PFS) or overall survival (OS) between patients positive or negative for FGFR3-TACC3 (FIGS. 44A-B). Finally, it was established whether the CNV analysis of the FGFR3 and TACC3 genomic loci could be used to predict positivity for FGFR3-TACC3 fusions. The analysis of high-density SNP6.0 arrays of the 158 GBM samples from the Atlas-TCGA revealed that 10 samples displayed different degrees of copy number gains encompassing the entire FGFR3 and TACC3 loci (FIG. 45). However, none of them harbored FGFR3-TACC3 fusions. Conversely, the 5 FGFR3-TACC3-positive samples in the dataset harbor micro-amplification events involving only the exons of the FGFR3 gene that are included in the fusion breakpoint. This finding suggests that any CNV survey that is less accurate than high-density SNP arrays, could fail to identify the genomic marks associated with true FGFR3-TACC3-positive cases.

TABLE 13 Molecular alterations in IDH wild type glioma harboring FGFR3-TACC3 fusions. The table reports the absolute number and frequency (percentage) of individual glioma-specific molecular alterations in tumors scoring positive or negative for FGFR3-TACC3 fusions. The analysis is done on the Union dataset (TCGA and “Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital” datasets, see methods for details). Statistically significant associations are indicated in bold (Fisher Exact test, q-values adjusted with FDR). N of % of N of % of FGFR3-TACC3 FGFR3-TACC3 FGRR3-TACC3 FGFR3-TACC P-value q-value Positive Positive Negative Negative (Fisher test) (FDR) EGFR amplification  0/16  0.0% 166/411 40.4% 4E−04 0.0012 CDK4 amplification  7/16 43.7%  41/408 10.0% 8.E−04 0.0024 MDM2 amplification  4/16 25.0%  24/408  5.9% 0.016 0.048 EGFRvIII  0/16  0.0%  37/219 16.9% 0.063 0.25 CDKN2A deletion  4/16 25.0% 188/411 45.7% 0.13 0.39 Chr. 7p gain 12/15 80.0% 242/374 64.7% 0.28 0.84 Chr. 10q deletion 12/16 75.0% 253/420 60.2% 0.3 0.9 TERT promoter  9/11 81.8% 128/163 78.5% 0.8 1 mutation MGMT promoter  6/12 50.0%  73/160 45.6% 0.7 1 hypermethylation

Preclinical and Clinical Relevance of Targeting FGFR3-TACC3 Fusions.

JNJ-42756493 is a potent, oral pan-FGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor with IC50 values in the low nanomolar range for all members of the FGFR family. It has demonstrated potent antitumor activities in nonclinical models with FGFR aberrations including squamous non-small cell lung cancer, gastric, breast, hepatocellular cancer (HCC), endometrial, and bladder (34, 35). To ask whether JNJ-42756493 is effective in targeting specifically FGFR-TACC-positive cells, mouse astrocytes expressing FGFR3-TACC3, FGFR3-TACC3 containing a mutation that inactivates the kinase activity of FGFR3 (FGFR3-TACC3-KD), or the empty vector were treated with JNJ-42756493. The effect of JNJ-42756493 on human glioma stem cells GIC-1123 that harbor the FGFR3-TACC3 gene fusion (6) was also studied. These experiments revealed that both mouse astrocytes and GIC-1123 that express FGFR3-TACC3 but not cells expressing the KD mutant fusion or the empty vector are highly sensitive to FGFR inhibition by JNJ-42756493 with an IC50 of 3.03 nM and 1.55 nM, respectively (FIGS. 38A-B). Next, the effect of oral treatment with JNJ-42756493 of mice bearing xenografts of human GIC-1123 affects tumor growth was tested. Mice were randomized to receive vehicle or JNJ-42756493 (12 mg/kg). Mirroring the in vitro results, JNJ-42756493 elicited a potent growth inhibition of GIC-1123 tumor xenografts (FIGS. 38C-D) with a statistically significant tumor regression after two weeks (p-value of the slope calculated from the treatment starting point=0.04). The above findings provide a strong foundation for the treatment of GBM patients harboring FGFR-TACC rearrangements with JNJ-42756493.

Two patients with recurrent GBM harboring FGFR3-TACC3 fusions were treated with JNJ-42756493 in a first-in-man phase I trial. Patient 1, male aged 52, underwent partial surgical resection of a right parietal GBM, followed by fractionated radiotherapy and concomitant temozolomide (TMZ) as first line treatment (36). The RT-PCR-sequencing analysis of the GBM specimen revealed positivity for the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion (FGFR3-exon17-TACC3-exon 6, sample 4451, FIGS. 40 and 41) and the immunostaining using FGFR3 antibody on paraffin embedded sections showed strong positivity in a large fraction of tumor cells. After 5 cycles of TMZ, the patient presented with dizziness and headache and brain Mill revealed tumor progression (FIG. 39A). At this time the patient was enrolled in the JNJ-42756493 trial and received JNJ-42756493 (12 mg/day administered in cycles of 7 days followed by 7 days off treatment). After 3 weeks the patient reported a marked clinical improvement (complete regression of dizziness and headache). On Mill, the sum of product diameters (RANO criteria, FIG. 39B) and volumetry (FIG. 39C) measured without excluding cystic and necrotic components showed disease stabilization. However, the tumor mass underwent significant decrease of the enhancing parenchyma (−44%) with formation of a cystic portion in the central core (33). The objective response was further corroborated by the marked reduction of the extent of tumor vascularity estimated by quantitative analysis of rCBV (relative cerebral blood volume) from dynamic susceptibility MR perfusion maps (37) (FIG. 39D). Stabilization lasted for 115 days. During JNJ-42756493 treatment mild and manageable toxicity was observed (grade I hyperphosphatemia, asthenia, dysgueusia, dry mouth, keratitis, and grade II nail changes). After 4 months, tumor progressed on MRI locally both on T1 contrast-enhanced area and T2/FLAIR hypersignal. The patient was re-operated and subsequently treated with CCNU. He is still alive, but in progression after 21 months from diagnosis and 287 days from the start of the anti-FGFR therapy.

Patient 2 is a 64 years old woman, affected by left parietal GBM, diagnosed by stereotactic biopsy. The tumor was positive for FGFR3-TACC3 gene fusion by RT-PCR-sequencing and showed diffuse FGFR3 expression in most tumor cells (FIGS. 37A, 37C, 37E, sample 4620). The patient received as first line treatment fractionated radiotherapy and TMZ according to the Stupp protocol (36), but after 2 cycles of monthly TMZ she presented with clinical deterioration including progressive headaches, right homonymous hemianopsia and memory impairment. Brain MM performed 3 and 4 months after the completion of concomitant chemo-radiotherapy revealed tumor progression with increase of the left parietal mass and the appearance of a small contralateral lesion (FIG. 49E). The patient was thus enrolled in the JNJ-42756493 trial (12 mg/day administered in cycles of 7 days followed by 7 days off treatment) and showed clinical improvement after 4 weeks (regression of headaches, visual field defect and memory impairment). Best response was observed after 104 days of treatment with a 22% reduction of tumor size according to the RANO criteria (FIG. 39F) and 28% according to volumetry (FIG. 39G). Grade I hyperphosphatemia, nail changes, and mucositis were observed. Clinical status remained stable until disease progression occurring 134 days after the start of the anti-FGFR. The patient is still alive and is receiving a third-line chemotherapy with nitrosoureas and bevacizumab.

TABLE 14 Summary of FGFR-TACC fusion transcripts identified in all cancer types. FGFR3-TACC3 fusion variants are ranked according to their prevalence across any cancer type. The number of FGFR- TACC fusions identified in each tumor type, including those identified in the present study, is also indicated. FGFR-TACC Fusion Variants N Cases Tumor Type FGFR3- FGFR3exon17- 30 Brain Tumors, N = 10 (N = 2,⁶; TACC3 TACC3exon11 N = 2,^(9, 15); N = 6, Present Study) Bladder Cancer, N = 6 (N = 3,^(12, 15); N = 3,¹¹) Lung Cancer, N = 13 (N = 4,^(12, 15); N = 9,¹⁰) Renal Carcinoma, N = 1,¹⁵ FGFR3exon17- 18 Brain Tumors, N = 5 (N = 1,⁶; TACC3exon10 N = 1,⁹; N = 3, Present Study) Oral Cancer, N = 1¹² Head and Neck Cancer, N = 2,^(12, 15) Bladder Cancer, N = 3,⁷ Lung Cancer, N = 7 (N = 4,⁸; N = 2,¹⁰; N = 1,¹⁴⁾ FGFR3exon17- 8 Brain Tumors, N = 6 (N = 2,⁶; TACC3exon8 N = 4, Present Study) Lung Cancer, N = 2 (N = 1,¹⁰; N = 1,¹⁴) FGFR3exon17- 4 Brain Tumors, N = 2 (N = 1,⁹; TACC3exon4 N = 1,¹³) Bladder Cancer, N = 1⁹ Lung Cancer, N = 1¹⁴ FGFR3exon17- 2 Brain Tumors, N = 2, Present TACC3exon6 Study FGFR3exon18- 1 Brain tumors, N = 1, Present TACCexon4 study FGFR3exon17- 1 Brain tumors, N = 1,⁶ TACC3exon9 INS63bp FGFR3exon18- 1 Brain Tumors, N = 1, Present TACC3exon9 study INS66bp FGFR3exon18- 1 Brain Tumors, N = 1, Present TACC3exon5 study FGFR3exon18- 1 Brain Tumors, N = 1, Present TACC3exon5 study INS33bp INS71bp 1 Lung Cancer, N = 1,¹⁰ FGFR3exon18- 1 Brain Tumors, N = 1, Present TACC3exon13 study FGFR3exon18- 1 Lung Cancer, N = 1,¹⁰ TACC3exon11 FGFR1- FGFR1exon17- 5 Brain Tumors, N = 5 (N = 1,⁶; TACC1 TACC1exon7 N = 3,¹³; N = 1, Present study) FGFR2- 1 Stomach Adenocarcinoma, TACC2 N = 1¹⁵

Discussion

FGFR-TACC fusions are potent oncogenic events that when present in brain tumor cells confer sensitivity to FGFR inhibitors (6). Since the original identification of recurrent FGFR-TACC fusions in GBM, small subgroups of patients harboring FGFR-TACC translocations have been identified in several other tumor types (7-15). Here, an unbiased RT-PCR-sequencing analysis for the identification of all possible functional FGFR-TACC fusion transcripts is reported. The screening of a large glioma dataset from multiple Institutions not only confirmed that FGFR-TACC rearrangements occur in ˜3% of human GBM but also revealed that FGFR-TACC fusions are present in the subgroup of IDH wild type lower grade glioma (grade with prevalence similar to that of GBM. IDH wild type grade II and III glioma have a significantly worse clinical outcome than the IDH mutant glioma and manifests molecular and clinical features that resemble GBM (5). The finding that FGFR-TACC fusions occur in IDH wild type but not IDH mutant glioma provides an important clue for the molecular characterization of this glioma subtype. Furthermore, the clustering of such potent oncogenic events in IDH wild type glioma underscores the particularly aggressive nature of this group of glioma. While it was shown that FGFR-TACC fusions cluster within the poor clinical outcome subgroup of IDH wild type glioma, these translocations do not seem to carry prognostic value within the IDH wild type subgroup of glioma patients. Without being bound by theory, the sample size of patients harboring FGFR-TACC fusions is too small to draw definitive conclusions with respect to the impact on survival and larger studies may be necessary to clarify the prognostic role of FGFR-TACC fusions in IDH wild type glioma.

Beside mutual exclusivity between IDH1 mutations and FGFR-TACC fusions, the results showed that patients with FGFR3-TACC3 rearrangements lack EGFR amplification and EGFRvIII but are significantly enriched for amplification of CDK4 (and MDM2 to a lesser extent). Knowledge of these molecular characteristics will help select those patients who most likely harbor FGFR-TACC rearrangements and design combinatorial targeted therapies that might be more effective in the FGFR-TACC-positive glioma subgroup.

The molecular screen uncovered 6 new FGFR3-TACC3 fusion events. Together with the previously identified variants, 12 distinct isoforms of FGFR3-TACC3 have been reported, thus revealing a remarkable variability of FGFR3-TACC3 transcripts in human cancer (see Table 14 summarizing the structure of all the FGFR-TACC variants identified to date). The structural heterogeneity of FGFR3-TACC3 fusions is yet more pronounced at the genomic level, whereby each fusion event harbors distinct genomic breakpoints, even for identical fusion transcripts. This finding underscores the notion that targeted genomic analyses are unlikely to be suitable approaches for the molecular diagnosis of FGFR3-TACC3 positivity. Conversely, the unbiased identification of FGFR3-TACC3-positive tumors with the RT-PCR-sequencing assay reported here overcomes the limitations of screening only for previously identified FGFR3-TACC3 fusions and provides a simple molecular diagnostic assay.

Rather than displaying uniform amplifications of the FGFR3 and TACC3 genomic loci, FGFR3-TACC3-positive samples harbor small, intragenic micro-amplification events typically encompassing only the exons of the FGFR3 and TACC3 genes included in the breakpoint (6). This finding is consistent with the notion that a “fusion breakpoint principle” sustains the CNVs of driver gene fusions such as FGFR3-TACC3 in which local CNVs target exclusively the breakpoint region (38). It is noted that such small and irregular CNVs may easily go undetected from CNV analyses performed using platforms less sensitive than the high-density SNP6.0 genomic arrays. Furthermore, the notion that FGFR3-TACC3-negative GBM may harbor uniform amplifications across the FGFR3 and TACC3 loci argues against the standard analysis of FGFR3 and/or TACC3 CNVs as a method for the selection of FGFR3-TACC3-positive tumors.

There is a growing body of evidence supporting the notion that GBM is a markedly heterogeneous tumor. The formidable degree of intra-tumor heterogeneity of GBM is a potential cause of failure of targeted therapies in these tumors. In particular, the intra-tumor heterogeneity of GBM has previously been recognized in light of the mosaic expression of the RTK genes EGFR, PDGFRA and MET by neighboring cells (16-19). Thus, in the majority of GBM, amplification or overexpression of individual RTK genes are present in a sub-clonal fraction of tumor cells and co-exist with amplification/expression of other RTK-coding genes within the tumor mass. Therefore, it was essential to determine whether such heterogeneity was also present in gliomas harboring FGFR-TACC translocations. The immunostaining of FGFR3-TACC3-positive tumors revealed that positive specimens manifest strong and uniform expression of the fusion protein, which is also retained after recurrence. This behavior is reminiscent of other driver chromosome translocations (BCR-ABL, EML4-ALK) and is compatible with the glioma-initiating functions of FGFR-TACC fusions (6). It is also the scenario expected for a driver oncogene whose activity remains essential for tumor maintenance regardless of secondary genetic alterations that occur during tumor progression. The strong antitumor effects obtained with JNJ-42756493 in glioma cells harboring FGFR3-TACC3 fusions have built a compelling rationale for the treatment of glioma patients positive for FGFR-TACC rearrangements. JNJ-42756493 is an oral ATP-competitive pan-FGFR selective inhibitor that inhibits tyrosine phosphorylation of activated FGFR at nanomolar concentrations (34, 35). The enrollment of two patients with recurrent FGFR3-TACC3-positive GBM in a phase I trial with JNJ-42756493 showed that this treatment has tolerable toxicity and clear anti-tumor activity, thus validating FGFR-TACC as a therapeutic target. Therefore, targeted inhibition of FGFR-TK in preselected IDH wild type FGFR-TACC-positive glioma may provide clinical benefits for patients with recurrent glioma who currently lack valuable therapeutic options. In conclusion, described herein is the importance and feasibility of prospective genotyping for FGFR-TACC fusions in glioma patients and provided a preliminary evidence of clinical response that warrants the investigation of the sensitivity of gliomas harboring FGFR-TACC rearrangements to FGFR kinase inhibition in clinical trials.

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What is claimed is:
 1. A method for treating a FGFR1-TACC1 or FGFR3-TACC3 fusion associated cancer in a subject in need thereof, the method comprising administering to the subject an effective amount of JNJ-42756493, wherein the subject has: (i) a FGFR3-TACC3 fusion associated cancer, wherein the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion comprises a tyrosine kinase domain of FGFR3 fused to the TACC domain of transforming acidic coiled-coil-containing (TACC)-3; or (ii) a FGFR1-TACC3 fusion associated cancer, wherein the FGFR1-TACC1 fusion comprises a tyrosine kinase domain of FGFR1 fused to the TACC domain of TACC1.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the subject has FGFR3-TACC3 fusion associated epithelial cancer, glioma, glioblastoma multiforme, breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, bladder carcinoma, squamous lung carcinoma, head and neck carcinoma or colorectal carcinoma.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the subject has FGFR3-TACC3 fusion associated epithelial cancer.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the subject has FGFR3-TACC3 fusion associated glioblastoma multiforme.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the subject has FGFR3-TACC3 fusion associated glioma.
 6. The method of claim 5, wherein the glioma is a grade II or III glioma.
 7. The method of claim 4 or 6, wherein the subject does not have mutations in IDH1 or IDH2 genes.
 8. The method of claim 4 or 6, wherein the subject does not have a gene amplification in EGFR.
 9. The method of claim 4 or 6, wherein the subject does not express EGFRγIII transcript variant.
 10. The method of claim 4 or 6, wherein the subject has a gene amplification of CDK4, MDM2, or both.
 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the subject has FGFR1-TACC1 fusion associated epithelial cancer, glioma, glioblastoma multiforme, breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, bladder carcinoma, squamous lung carcinoma, head and neck carcinoma or colorectal carcinoma.
 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the subject has FGFR1-TACC1 fusion associated epithelial cancer.
 13. The method of claim 1, wherein the subject has FGFR1-TACC1 fusion associated glioblastoma multiforme.
 14. The method of claim 1, wherein the subject has FGFR1-TACC1 fusion associated glioma.
 15. The method of claim 14, wherein the glioma is a grade II or III glioma.
 16. The method of claim 13 or 15, wherein the subject does not have mutations in IDH1 or IDH2 genes.
 17. The method of claim 13 or 15, wherein the subject does not have a gene amplification in EGFR.
 18. The method of claim 13 or 15, wherein the subject does not express EGFRγIII transcript variant.
 19. The method of claim 13 or 15, wherein the subject has a gene amplification of CDK4, MDM2, or both.
 20. The method of claim 1, wherein the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion comprises SEQ ID NO: 85, 86, 87, or
 89. 21. The method of claim 1, wherein the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion comprises SEQ ID NO:
 85. 22. The method of claim 1, wherein the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion comprises SEQ ID NO:
 87. 23. The method of claim 1, wherein the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion comprises SEQ ID NO: 158, 159, 160, or
 161. 24. The method of claim 1, wherein the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion comprises SEQ ID NO: 542, 543, 544, 545, 546, or
 547. 25. The method of claim 1, wherein the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion comprises a tyrosine kinase domain of FGFR3 transcript variant 1 fused to the TACC domain of TACC3.
 26. The method of claim 1, wherein a nucleotide sequence encoding the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion comprises SEQ ID NO: 1-77, 80-82, or
 84. 27. The method of claim 1, wherein a nucleotide sequence encoding the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion comprises SEQ ID NO: 519-527, or 530-538.
 28. The method of claim 1, wherein a nucleotide sequence encoding the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion comprises SEQ ID NO: 533-538.
 29. The method of claim 1, wherein the FGFR1-TACC1 fusion comprises SEQ ID NO:
 88. 30. The method of claim 1, wherein the FGFR1-TACC1 fusion comprises SEQ ID NO:
 150. 31. A method for treating a FGFR1-TACC1 or FGFR3-TACC3 fusion associated cancer in a subject in need thereof, the method comprising: (a) obtaining a biological sample from the subject; (b) detecting whether or not the subject has a FGFR1-TACC1 or FGFR3-TACC3 fusion, wherein the FGFR3-TACC3 fusion comprises a tyrosine kinase domain of FGFR3 fused to the TACC domain of transforming acidic coiled-coil-containing (TACC)-3, or wherein the FGFR1-TACC1 fusion comprises a tyrosine kinase domain of FGFR1 fused to the TACC domain of TACC1; and (c) administering to the subject an effective amount of JNJ-42756493 if in the subject has a FGFR3-TACC3 or FGFR1-TACC1 fusion protein. 